The women of East Riddlesden Hall

This April the Maides Coign tapestry by Chrissie Freeth is to be displayed in the dining room at East Riddlesden Hall from the 17 April.

The tapestry is inspired by the inscription above the fireplace which reads "THEY MAIDES OF COIHN INA" which is a reference to psalms 144:12: "that our daughters may be as corner stones". Chrissie was inspired by Grace Murgatroyd and her role within her royalist family during the civil war. This is the first time the tapestry has been exhibited next to the fireplace which inspired it.

During research into the previous inhabitants of East Riddlesden Hall, the team have uncovered 5 fascinating stories about previous female tenants and will be sharing their stories with visitors.

From Kathleen Bailey, a member of the last tenant family to work the farm at East Riddlesden Hall to Sarah Starkie, a woman described as masculine and called Madam Starkie in her time.

These stories will be shared around the Hall with some of the portraits and personal belongings of these women.

Amy Gregory, Collections & House Officer said “We have a lot of unanswered questions about the hall, it’s been a great experience for us to really research these women and find out some more of the history of this special place.

Understanding their lives and how they would have spent their time living here has really helped to picture the Hall as it once was, the centre of a thriving farm.”

The hall, gardens and tearoom will be open 10am – 4pm, Saturday – Wednesday. The shop will open from 11am – 4pm.

Every visit to East Riddlesden Hall helps us look after this special place, from taking care of our collections to looking after nature in the gardens.

For more details about opening times, events and activities taking place at East Riddlesden Hall visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk/east-riddlesden-hall