Anthony Burton: “The contribution of the Gaskell family to the cultural life of Manchester“.

 Elizabeth Gaskell could be said to have put Manchester on the map, through her novels, as a significant site in imaginative literature.  But her family too were involved in Manchester life.  Her husband William was a central figure in the intellectual affairs of Manchester, involved in many local institutions as well as the Cross Street chapel, where he was minister.  And  her  two daughters, who stayed on in 84 Plymouth Grove after the death of their parents, were also leading figures in Manchester culture.  This talk surveys their varied contributions.

Anthony Burton spent most of his working life as a curator at the Victoria and Albert Museum, London.  For many years he was also a Trustee of the Charles Dickens Museum in Bloomsbury. Since coming to live in Greater Manchester he has maintained his interest in literary houses, by becoming a Trustee and volunteer at Elizabeth Gaskell’s House.

Doors open at 12.15,pm. so that anyone who wishes may bring a packed lunch or purchase it at one of the nearby sandwich shops. The chapel provides tea and coffee for a small donation.

Entrance Fee: Members £3 Non-members £4 All are welcome.