Jane’s sister Cassandra was her dearest friend and companion throughout her life. Pretty and practical, she is often pictured as the more solemn of the two sisters, although Jane at least thought she was extremely funny. She was also a talented artist, and her portrait of Jane is a treasure of the National Portrait Gallery. In 2023, we are celebrating 250 years since Cassandra’s birth with a year-long programme of events.

To kick off this special year, join us for a unique virtual guided tour of Jane Austen’s House. In each room, discover objects, paintings and stories that reveal more about Jane’s beloved sister and her life here in Chawton.

Together, we’ll discover the rooms where Jane and Cassandra lived, and learn more about Cassandra’s life story. From her happy childhood in Steventon to the tragic death of her fiancé, followed by a life dedicated to family and friends, art, reading and charity work, we’ll get to know Cassandra through objects, portraits, stories and letters.

After Jane’s early death, Cassandra continued living in Chawton Cottage until her own death in 1845. Find out more about this time – the ways in which she fostered her sister’s legacy and preserved her memory, overseeing her will, the publication of her works, and the distribution and final destruction of her letters.

Details:

Date: Wednesday 22 March 2023

Time: 6pm – 7pm (GMT)

Location: This event will take place online. Join us from the comfort of your own home!

Tickets: £6.50

 This event will take place on Zoom. Please provide a valid email address, as you will be emailed a link to join the tour in the run up to the event. 

 If you are joining as a group or household, please buy one ticket for each person attending.  All proceeds go towards the upkeep of the Museum. 

 Timings are given in UK time (GMT) – please do check what the event time is in your territory, to ensure you log in at the right time.

🎨 This event is part of our ‘Year of Cassandra’, celebrating the life of Cassandra Austen, 1773 – 1845.