Anne Lister's Cabinet of Curiosities

Anne Lister had a lifelong interest in all things science

During the 19th century, fields like natural history and geology became increasingly accessible to the broader public, with private collections and museums flourishing as symbols of knowledge, curiosity, and cultural refinement. Although formal scientific communities and institutions often excluded women, many found alternative ways to engage with the natural world through informal education, social circles, and personal passion.

Mary Anning, for instance, achieved fame for her groundbreaking fossil discoveries along the cliffs of Lyme Regis, despite lacking formal scientific training. Despite her lack of formal training, her contributions to paleontology were recognized by prominent male scientists. Similarly, Lady Mary Wortley Montagu, though more known for her literary and political work, collected specimens during her travels and maintained correspondence with scientists, demonstrating how women could contribute to intellectual and scientific communities through their social networks.

Anne Lister, similarly, cultivated a deep interest in the natural sciences, as detailed in her journals. She often attended lectures both in Halifax and during her travels, particularly in Paris. Her fascination with subjects like natural history, geology, and anatomy led her to engage with prominent scientific figures of the time, such as Georges Cuvier. Lister’s involvement in these pursuits not only highlights her curiosity but also offers a window into the scientific and cultural attitudes of her era.