Travels with Frank Austen

Admiral Sir Francis Austen (known to the family as Frank), Jane Austen’s older brother, was born on 23 April 1774 – a year before his celebrated sister.

This display celebrates the 250^th anniversary of Frank’s birth, showcasing two newly acquired objects that reveal much about the Austen family and their history: an unpublished manuscript biography of Francis Austen and an album of watercolours and drawings by Francis and his daughter Cassandra. Previously in family ownership, these objects go on display for the first time, offering new insights into Jane Austen and her family through the lens of the brother most intimately connected with the domestic lives of the Austen women.

With thanks to the Friends of the National Libraries and the V&A Beecroft Bequest for their help with these acquisitions.