PLANS have been approved for a blue plaque to be installed on a historic house with Bronte links.
Spen Valley Civic Society applied for the plaque at the Grade II* listed former Red House museum in Gomersal to honour Mary Taylor, a radical feminist and friend of Charlotte Bronte.
Dating back to 1660, the property and grounds are considered an important heritage asset.
They are associated with Luddite activities and the Taylor family, particularly Mary.
And the house is revered by Bronte fans. Charlotte was a regular guest at the property in the 1830s and gave it a starring role as Briarmains in her novel, Shirley.
Red House operated as a museum from 1970, but falling visitor numbers and rising costs led to its closure in 2016.
The building, owned by Kirklees Council, is currently empty.
Erica Amende, from Spen Valley Civic Society, said: "We felt Mary’s achievements had not been recognised. We’ve wanted to put up a plaque to her for some time and are pleased that Kirklees Council is supporting us.
"As a pioneering feminist and champion of women’s rights, Mary challenged restrictions on middle-class women’s lives. Her lifelong friendship with Charlotte Bronte was crucial to Charlotte’s success."
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