27/06/2026
On this day in 1817, Branwell Brontë was born! 🎈
Unlike his sisters, Branwell did not receive any formal education. He was given a primary education by his aunt, with a visiting master instructing him in drawing and music. His father Patrick also tutored him in the classics.
As the only son, Branwell was expected to achieve great things and was encouraged to pursue his ambition to become a portrait painter. He tried to establish himself in Bradford, and while he made many friends among the artistic community, he didn't manage to make a profitable living as an artist.
Image: A sketched self-portrait of Branwell Brontë.