In 2025, we celebrate the 250th anniversary of the birthday of Jane Austen. So how better to start the year than with a talk by local historian and dedicated Janeite Joy Pibworth, exploring Austen’s connections with Reading. Reading’s Abbey Gateway was then home to the Ladies Boarding School which Jane Austen attended from 1785-6. With the help of contemporary sources, we shall look at the buildings, daily routines, the teachers and the local environment Jane would have become familiar with (and possibly even muse on the echoes in her writing).
After the talk, tea/coffee and cake will be available (included in the price). Pre-booking is preferred, but you can pay on the door, if there are spaces available.
2-3.30pm
Image – Edward Hawke Locker – Reading Abbey (watercolour)
About Berkshire Family History Society
This talk is organised by Berkshire Family History Society CIO, a registered charity number 1204390.
Looking for something to do, rather than something to see? We've got all manner of classes and workshops, plus games, escape rooms and other interactive activities. There's something for everyone, from dance, to arts and crafts, to food and drink and the odd bit of geekery, too!
