There are over 70 historical blue plaques in York, but this one, with its distinctive rainbow border, is unique. It was the first ever permanent rainbow plaque in the UK and commemorates the day that Anne Lister and Ann Walker came here with the intent to take the sacrament together and solemnify their relationship in the eyes of God. The plaque celebrates the commitment they made to each other to live as a married couple
It was not possible for them have a marriage in church, but they could take Communion together, just as would have happened after a the vows in a typical marriage ceremony of the time. Communion was not a sacrament that was offered often – just special days, such as Easter Sunday.
So, on 30th March 1834, Easter Sunday, it was to Holy Trinity Goodramgate that Anne and Ann came along with Thomas Beech their groom.
On their one year anniversary of “being together so comfortably and so happily” Anne Lister and Ann Walker celebrated with Plum Cake. On Saturday 30th March 2024 you can mark the anniversary of them taking communion together by taking “Tea in the Pews” and enjoying a little plum cake too!
You will also have the opportunity to meet and mingle with some of the parishioners, who knew Anne during her lifetime. Mr Jonathan Gray of Gray’s Court ( Anne’s Solicitor) will be here. Mr William Hubie, Cabinet Maker of Ogleforth and maker of Anne’s new French Bedstead may well be trying to avoid Anne! And also, Mrs Bell of Nicholson and Bell Drapers and Silk Merchants, purveyor of stocking, blankets, and silk will be
The day will see the launch of the guide book “Anne Lister’s York Walking Tour”. If you want to learn more about the places that Anne new and visited in York, this is the perfect purchase.
Tea in the Pews, Meet the Locals and ‘Anne Lister’s York Walking Tour’ Book Launch
Holy Trinity, Goodramgate, York
Saturday 30th March 11am – 3pm
No booking required, drop in any time between 11am and 3pm. It’s free to visit the church and chat to our parishioners, but for £7.50 we can offer you a lovely cup of tea or coffee, and a slice of plum cake with butter, clotted cream and jam.
Article contributed by Sarah Cowling – www.sarahyorkshireguide.com
