Ella Pontefract

Who was Ella Pontefract?

Ella Pontefract was the author of six books on the social history of the Yorkshire Dales related to disappearing rural traditions. Though thin and slightly built she was spirited and lively minded. Her character was charming and modest.

"She loved people and was the best listener I have ever met" Joan Ingilby.

The recording of reminiscences, Oral history, is a very noticeable feature of the work of Ella Pontefract. Women were among the first to interrogate local inhabitants for history based on personal reminiscences. Ella and her partner Marie Hartley developed a rigorous transcription method for recording Yorkshire dialect, and vocabulary including the subtle distinctions between adjacent valleys. They showed great enthusiasm for and interest in the skills, crafts and ways the Dales made its living.

She had "great strength of mind and independence of thought. In the villages she was deeply loved for her infinite kindness and abiding affection for the stone villages." David Brooks, The Yorkshire Post 1945.