Historical Houses of England - A Peek into the Life of Jane Austen

It isn’t hard to see an historical house in England as everything is old, but having taught the literature of England for so many years I was looking forward to seeing some famous addresses.  The first house we visited that wasn’t a castle was the home of Jane Austen. She spent the last eight years of her life at this house in Chawton. Everything about her home was light and airy and to add to the enchantment there were people visiting dressed in period style. These men and women did not work there, but had just arrived when we did to see the house and were dressed in 18th century clothing.  

The desk that Jane wrote at seemed so small, yet her famous novels were composed on this small table with a quill pen.  There were fresh flowers on every windowsill and I found that delightful. Jane was born in 1775 and only lived 42 years, dying in 1817.  She wasn’t well known in her lifetime as her books were published anonymously and she didn’t really become famous as a great writer until the twentieth century.  

“I think I may boast myself to be, with all possible vanity, the most unlearned and uninformed female who ever dared to be an authoress.”

                                                                         Jane Austen

Two women in period dress walk in front of Jane Austen's house.  

A look at what would be for us a very primitive kitchen.

A lovely display of bonnets and dresses.

Mr. Darcy comes to life.

I agree with Jane completely.  Love this little display

It's all in the details.

To think that Jane's great books like PRIDE AND PREJUDICE, SENSE AND SENSIBILITY and others came from writing at this little table.  All with a quill pen.  Amazing!

Another sweet touch.

Can you tell I like to photograph flowers?

Bowl used for a sink and chamber pot below.

I doubt Jane's original bed has survived, but this gives the feeling of the late 1700's early 1800's.

Period dress and sewing case.

Another dress and hat of the period.

Hats and bonnets on display.

The simple back yard of Jane Austen's house.