Notable Lesbians
This week’s Notable Lesbian is:
Anne Lister
1791–1840
Anne was called “Gentleman Jack” by Halifax residents, and is known as the “first modern lesbian.” She was a well-off Yorkshire landowner and self-conscious lesbian who suffered from recorded harassment for her sexuality.
Anne is best known for her coded journals in which she recorded her daily life, romances, and seductions, as well as her rigorous program of study. She also traveled widely. Her affair with a wealthy heiress, Ann Walker, was a story of local repute.
Interesting tid bit:
During her life she wrote a four million word diary. Around one sixth of the diary is encrypted and describes quite graphically her lesbian nature and affairs.
“I love and only love the fairer sex and thus beloved by them in turn, my heart revolts from any love but theirs.” ~ Anne Lister
If you have a suggestion for a Notable Lesbian, e-mail me at lyndsey.darcangelo@451press.net or use the contact form above and I’ll highlight her in an upcoming post.
notable lesbians, anne lister, first modern lesbian, diarist, gentleman jack, halifax, yorkshire, coded journals, lesbian affairs
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