Apologies again for the pictures not being rotated. My computer is having a temper tantrum.
We visited the only home of Jane Austen that is open to the public, in a town called Chawton. When we pulled up next to the park there was a fantastic little playground with a giant basket swing. I ran for it as soon as I saw it and before you knew it there were 38 college students waiting for a turn on this swing. Yes we are adults, and yes our professors extended our visit almost an hour because we were having so much fun. While we were at the park, a very hyper puppy (probably a King Charles Spaniel) dropped her tennis ball at my feet. She wasn't prejudiced, she came to every person in turn to give them a chance to play too. We would huck the ball as far as we could and she would go skidding off into the leaves like a little dervish. She was so deliriously happy at having so many friends. We had a great time and wore her right out while her owner sat and watched the spectacle.
Chawton Cottage, where Jane lived with her mother and sister. Her brother inherited the estate indirectly and gave them this house to live in.
They had an interactive kitchen where you could make lavender sachets and play dress up.
Her main writing table. She asked that the creaky door not be oiled so she would always have a warning. She kept her writing very quiet even though it was common knowledge within the family.
The bed she shared with her sister.
Her brother's room for when he visited.
Some of her actual jewelry.
We believe this was one of her dresses, and they are trying to decide if they want to restore it or leave it as it is.
Austen did this stitching on the shirt and made the quilt in the background. Apparently she had multiple talents.
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