"Jane Austen 200, A Life in Hampshire" - 2017 to be a year packed with exhibitions, talks,

July 18, 2017 will mark the 200th anniversary of Jane Austen’s death, and Hampshire Cultural Trust, in collaboration with Jane Austen’s House Museum, Chawton House Library, Winchester Cathedral, Winchester College and Destination Basingstoke, have launched a commemorative series of events celebrating the author's creativity, life and talent.

2017 promises to be a year filled with exhibitions, discussions, walks, writing competitions and unforgettable performances. In addition, Jane Austen 200 has created "Jane Austen Big Picnics" which will incorporate performances, the sampling of Regency food as well as other opportunities to learn more about Austen. Jane Austen Big Picnic packs will provide participants with the option of either organizing a Big Picnic in their own area or taking family and friends out for a special Austen treat. To learn more about the Big Picnics and Jane Austen 200, interested persons may visit the host website (janeausten200.co.uk) to sign up for email updates.

In anticipation of 2017, events have already begun to unfold. On January 9, 2016, Jane Austen 2oo Preview was launched at the Willis Museum (formerly the old Basingstoke Town Hall) (watercolor inset) and the Sainsbury Gallery. Pianist, Lisa Timbs, performed in Regency costume before a small group at the Willis Currently on display at the Museum are Jane's portable writing desk, her spectacles, and her original manuscript for "The History of England" which the author penned at the age of fifteen. Austen's sister, Cassandra, provided the illustrations for the text. The exhibition runs until February 20th.

The Hampshire Cultural Trust invites all to come for a visit to see what else is planned for the year-long tribute to Austen.