The Parish of St. Peter & St. Paul, Tonbridge has the privilege of holding several memorials to people who were instrumental in the life of Jane Austen’s family. Her father was born here and is on the baptismal register of our church, where he worshipped until he was in his late twenties. This is merely one chapter in the exciting story of the Austen’s and Tonbridge.
With the help of members of the Jane Austen Society we have produced a guidebook and audio tour voiced by well known actress Louise Jameson to bring these memorials to life and there is an exhibition of Austen artefacts planned for September as a way of tangibly connecting with this aspect of our town’s heritage.
In collaboration with Kent Libraries and Explore Kent we are producing a guided walk of the town the Austen’s knew. This is an informative leaflet and accompanying audio guide, also voiced by Louise Jameson, which brings visitors from the library to the church, telling the story through the buildings of Tonbridge.
The Tonbridge Project has uncovered the roots of Jane Austen’s own story and has revealed an incredible part of our town’s history. We feel it is the missing piece to the Hampshire and Bath Austen trail and hope to establish this connection as something of major interest.
The project will be up and running for September 12th and 13th – Heritage Weekend. Our celebrations will begin with a reception at the library (11am) which we hope Francis Austen and Louise Jameson will join us for. This will be followed by the inaugural walk of the audio guide and a reception at the church. Regency Teas will be served all weekend. As the project has involved the partnership of the Parish of St. Peter & St. Paul, Kent Libraries and Tonbridge School, it is an event of real significance for our community.
