The Jane Austen’s House Museum is appealing to the public for help in deciphering a handwritten memoir penned by Jane Austen’s brother, Admiral Sir Francis Austen, in his final days. The 79-page manuscript, acquired by the museum in 2023, is believed to have been written in 1863 when Francis was in his late 80s. Despite being written in the third person, experts believe Francis himself authored the memoir, which chronicles the family’s domestic life together. The museum’s Director, Lizzie Dunford, expressed her excitement about the project, stating that the response from the public has been incredible. Over 2,000 volunteers offered their assistance within the first 24 hours, demonstrating the enduring fascination with Jane Austen’s life and work. The museum will provide volunteers with high-definition images of the memoir pages along with instructions. Transcribers are tasked with accurately recording the handwritten text, leaving notes for any unclear or unreadable portions. Multiple volunteers will cross-check the same page to ensure accuracy and resolve any disputed meanings. Dunford emphasized that the museum aims to publish the final transcription online, making it accessible to the public. The hope is that this rare document will provide valuable insights into the family life of one of English literature’s most beloved authors. Francis Austen, affectionately known as Frank within his family, served as a high-ranking officer in the Royal Navy and lived to the ripe age of 91. He provided a home for his sisters, Jane and Cassandra, and their mother in Southampton after their father’s passing. His memoir offers a glimpse into their domestic life together. Dunford expressed her anticipation for learning more about Sir Francis Austen’s experiences and how they may have influenced some of Jane Austen’s most famous characters. Naval officers play significant roles in both “Mansfield Park” and “Persuasion,” and the Napoleonic Wars serve as the backdrop for all of her novels. The memoir is expected to provide a unique perspective on these aspects through the eyes of Austen’s brother. Excerpts from the memoir that have already been published include an account of Frank’s life from his childhood in Chawton to his entry into the Navy at age 12, descriptions of his life at sea, a stay with family in Bath in 1802, his marriage, and his retirement to Chawton. The memoir is a valuable addition to the Jane Austen’s House Museum’s unparalleled collection, which includes letters, jewelry, and first-editions of Jane’s novels. The museum is eager to publish the results of the transcription project and make it available to the public. Dunford acknowledged that the project may take time due to the large number of participants and the potential for future research. However, the museum is excited about the end result and the contributions it will make to our understanding of Jane Austen and her family. The Jane Austen’s House Museum, located in the Chawton cottage where Jane spent the last eight years of her life and wrote most of her novels, has been open to the public since 1949 and is celebrating its 75th anniversary this year. Dunford concluded by inviting Jane Austen enthusiasts to participate in a weekend of celebrations in mid-July, featuring talks, events, and the annual dress-up day. The museum encourages visitors to stay tuned for further details on its website, social media channels, and newsletter.
Jane Austen’s Brother’s Handwritten Memoir Needs Your Help for Transcription
