The Secrets of Chawton House

Chawton House is best known as a manor owned by Jane Austen’s brother, Edward. But its history is so much more richer than just an inspiration for one of our greatest writers. This is also where kings of England once hunted. This talk is a selection of secrets and stories from 800 years of history at Chawton House - from orphans to Austens, from Gretna Green to gardens and ghosts, from poisoners to the Game of Thrones - we have it all!
Martin’s talk will be followed by a Twitter Q&A with him and the Chawton House staff.
Join the conversation #ChawtonLitFest
Martin Caddick
Martin Caddick retired from PwC in 2017, and is now able to devote his time to his great interest in both history and literature. He has been researching the history of Chawton House in depth, drawing on the records in the house and those shared by various members of the Knight family, as well as public records and the collective knowledge of the guides. Documenting his findings is a project that has already taken two years, and is expected to continue for several more.
Thank you for tuning in to Chawton House's Lockdown Literary Festival. This programme, happening on 15, 16 & 17 May is all online, and all for free. It is a celebration of women's writing, with events including talks, discussions, workshops and Q&As.If you have enjoyed any of our digital content and, if you are able, please consider donating to the Chawton House Emergency Appeal. Your donations will ensure we can keep producing content inspired by the Chawton House collections:chawtonhouse.o...

[@angeladugal4078]

Thanks so much for the wonderful visit.

[@jennygordon4338]

I found this talk fascinating and Martin is obviously very knowledgeable and passionate about Chawton House.

[@duijvesteinbarchas6779]

Love the confident evidence of the efficacy of witches marks in keeping away witches from Chawton House! So enjoyed this talk. Thank you.

[@themoralworld6864]

As an amateur archaeologist and historian, I found this an incredibly interesting talk. I would love to explore all of those hidden areas.

[@deborahbarnum2228]

Excellent talk Martin - such history there!

[@SarahAgnew]

Fantastic talk, funny and interesting throughout.

[@jeanmosley3933]

Another interesting talk. I cannot wait to visit Chawton House which has just risen to #1 on my 'After Lockdown' list which gets longer by the day. Thank you.

[@steveroush6597]

Many thanks. My next visit to Chawton will be much more enjoyable because of all this fascinating history.

[@olgapetrova7757]

Very interesting! I also love the humour with which information is presented!

[@currycei]

Fascinatin ! Thank you!

[@dhuggs5299]

Loved the history. Thank you so much. When possible, it would be great if this could be refilled from within the great house.