Leeds Civic Trust is unveiling a blue plaque to celebrate Bramley Baths, the last Edwardian bath house remaining in Leeds.
Built to improve public health and wellbeing in response to the outbreak of cholera,
Bramley Baths was one of eight public bath houses in Leeds.
Local residents came to wash, swim and use the Russian Steam Baths which was a fashionable habit with the wealthier Edwardians.
The baths have remained a constant in Leeds life, and following restoration in the late
80s, was reopened in the early 90s.
This year the baths are celebrating its tenth anniversary of being a community-led enterprise and a Blue Plaque from Leeds Civic Trust is being awarded in recognition of its significance in Leeds’s wider heritage.
The wording for the blue plaque is as follows: “BRAMLEY BATHS. Built in 1904 in response to the cholera outbreak, this fine Grade II listed building is the last functioning bath house in Leeds. In continuous use since opening, generations have washed, learned to swim, danced and used the Russian steam baths within this important community building.”
The blue plaque will be unveiled on Saturday 9 September at 12.15 outside Bramley Baths.
Leeds Civic Trust Director Martin Hamilton said: “As a child, I learned to swim at Bramley Baths – joining thousands of people who have visited the baths over the decades. It is a real Bramley landmark, and I am delighted that we are now able to share its story more widely.”
CEO of Bramley Baths, David Wilford said: “Bramley Baths is a very special place in the hearts of many generations and has been since it opened its doors in 1904. Having a blue plaque means a lot to Bramley Baths – it is recognition of the historical significance and cultural value of the building, and the important role the Baths continues to play in the community. Receiving a blue plaque is a source of great pride for Bramley Baths and our community.”
Featured image – Supplied
