This is a very emotional month for me, as it sees (on 16 December) the 250th anniversary of Jane Austen’s birth. Her novels have totally changed my life, enriched it hugely, and given me such joy. I was delighted to learn that NSW State Parliament is hosting a special High Tea on the actual day.
Anyone can attend, and bookings are essential. Places are limited, please book here.
Unfortunately it has SOLD OUT. That’s wonderful for Jane Austen, but I’m so sorry if you’ve missed out.
I know that during the day I will also be taking from the shelves the six novels I adore and will seek out favourite passages to read and smile over. I think I’ll also make her a birthday cake. It’s so wonderful to know that her birthday is being celebrated around the world, bringing to an end a year of truly extraordinary and global Jane Austen events.
However, all is not perfect in Austen-land. I’ve heard of plans that would see up to 12,000 new houses built in East Hampshire. Historic villages, farmland and ancient routes that have shaped Hampshire for centuries would disappear, destroying the rural landscape that inspired Jane Austen.
I beg you to please, please, please sign a petition which might help stop this dreadful development in and around Chawton, Jane Austen’s home village. You can sign the petition here.
If you have ever had one moment’s enjoyment from this newsletter, would you please do this for me, and also encourage friends to sign and share the link on social media. This horrible development needs to be stopped to save one of the most important literary landscapes in the world.
32 years ago, when I walked into a church hall in North Sydney to attend my first meeting of the Jane Austen Society of Australia, I never dreamed that this was literally the first step of the rest of my life. Throughout this year, I’ve shared stories about Jane Austen, her life and remarkable legacy, and how much pleasure she has given me over the years.
My final instalment is my own story-of how I listened, entranced, as my wonderful, bookish mother first read Pride and Prejudice to me, unaware of the impact this day would have on the rest of my life.
Revisit my year-long celebration of Jane Austen’s 250th anniversary here.
I hope that you, too, will pick up a Jane Austen novel on 16 December. Happy Birthday, Jane!
Selected links for relevant websites, books, movies, videos, and more. Some of these links lead to protected content on this website, learn more about that here.
NSW Parliament: Jane Austen High Tea
Petition: Save Jane Austen Country
Susannah Fullerton: Austen Addiction
Susannah Fullerton: Jane Austen 250
Susannah Fullerton: Jane Austen is born
Susannah Fullerton: Lots of Jane Austen links
Susannah Fullerton: Jane & I, A Tale of Austen Addiction
The Jane Austen Society of Australia
janet cantor
I tried to sign the petition and they used the wrong zip code and I was unable to change it.
Why don’t people have a respect for history?
I like that the U.S. will be celebrating our 250th next year.
Susannah Fullerton
Yes, it will be a big year in the USA next year and I hope you get to join in some of the celebrations.
Thanks for trying to sign the petition. It is a proposed development that badly needs to be stopped.