Alistair Hardaker
Image: One of the buildings acquired for the expanded Brontë Parsonage Museum
The Brontë Parsonage Museum secures three disused properties, including photographer Fred Smith’s former studio, ahead of 2028 centenary.
The Brontë Society has acquired three historic buildings, marking a significant expansion almost 100 years after Sir James Roberts gifted the original Haworth Parsonage building to the organisation in August 1928.
The properties, which have not been in use for many years and are currently in a state of disrepair, were purchased shortly before they were due to be sold at auction. The acquisition was made possible through a recent bequest to the Society, though external funding will be sought for the refurbishment work.
Lucy Powrie, Chair of the Brontë Society, said: “As we look towards honouring the centenary of the Brontë Parsonage Museum in 2028, I am delighted that our acquisition of this building will allow us to shape an ambitious and inclusive vision for the future of the Museum and the Brontë Society, a vision we hope will uphold the heritage of the Brontës and Haworth for generations to come.”
The buildings, situated in a conservation area, include the former studio of Haworth photographer Fred Smith, who served as caretaker of the original Brontë Museum above the Yorkshire Penny Bank in the early 1900s. Many of Smith’s photographs documenting Haworth from that period are held in the Brontë Society’s archive, and the organisation hopes to display them in the renovated building.
Rebecca Yorke, Director of the Brontë Parsonage Museum, said The Brontë Society had long hoped to have a presence “closer to the heart of Haworth”.
“There is a lot of work to do before the restoration can begin, but everyone at the Brontë Parsonage Museum is very excited about the potential of this building and the opportunities it offers for closer community engagement with local residents and visitors alike.”
