For you Jane Austen fans out there, today is her 239th birthday anniversary.
Born on the 16 of December in 1775 at Steventon Rectory near Alton Hampshire, Jane entered this world during a record snow storm. She was the seventh child and second daughter born to Reverend George Austen and his wife Cassandra nee Leigh. Austen was primarily educated at home and spent most of her childhood with her seven siblings. She and her siblings were encouraged to read from their father’s library and spent much of their time putting on plays and acts for their parents. At age 14, Austen had already written a number of stories, and in her early twenties she had written the novels that she would later revise and publish as "Sense and Sensibiilty," "Pride and Prejudice," and "Northanger Abbey." Austen was closest to her father and her only sister, Cassandra. As a young woman, Austen lived with her family and spent much of her time writing, reading, socializing with the neighbors, and dancing. After her father’s unexpected death in 1801, Austen’s family found themselves in a tight financial situation. She, her mother, and her sister moved from place to place until they finally were able to settle at her brother’s cottage in Chawton. It was in her thirties that Austen began to anonymously publish her work. Her first three novels received a great deal of positive attention, but it was only after her death in 1817 that her brother made it publicly known that she was the author. Today, Austen is considered one of the great English writers, known for the wit and lively commentary that are embodied in her fiction.
Jane's home in Chawton
Jane's home in Steventon where she was born.
Beautiful collection of Jane Austen's books.
Jane Austen's six heroines. Elizabeth Bennet, Anne Elliott, Emma Woodhouse, Catherine Morland, Fanny Price, and Elinor Dashwood.
These stamps were from the Jane Austen festival last year which was the 200th anniversary of Pride and Prejudice. My great Aunt's sister gave them to me after she went to the festival.
Some Jane Austen thing I was given. Stamps, perfume, pin, cards, dance card, and paper holder.
Here are some beautiful Jane Austen themed cakes.
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In honor of Jane Austen's birthday I am offering 10% off your total purchase in my
Etsy shop. Use the coupon code JANEAUSTENDAY10. This is good now thru Saturday the 20th.
