She finds Maria a capable person and thinks she seems strong and serious-minded, all traits she finds admirable. Especially in a fellow woman, because she knows how hard it can be to be a lady like that and be taken seriously and retain those traits despite any crap they may have gotten from menfolk. I don't think Red is aware of the fact she's from the far past, but she would probably be interested in hearing about it and be horrified to hear all the lack of amenities and such Maria had to live without. I mean, sure Red probably went without a proper bath for days on end on Mars, but at least she had the option to stop in for a glorious shower and use of a proper toilet.