Anthony Hughes-Onslow has been appointed General Manager of Chawton House Library, the internationally respected research and learning centre for the study of early women’s writing from 1600 to 1830.
The post has been created to help the charity conserve and protect the Elizabethan house, gardens and estate, once belonging to Jane Austen’s brother Edward Knight, that provide the historical setting and backdrop to the library.
As General Manager, Hughes-Onslow will also be playing a vital role in developing visitor access to Chawton House Library this year.
“Protecting and promoting this beautiful country estate and enabling more people to experience the special environment here is a priority” said Anthony Hughes-Onslow.
Hughes-Onslow, who was born and bred in Hampshire, has previously been General Manager of the Broadlands Estates in Hampshire and Stanford Hall in Leicestershire.
Having also worked as an insurance broker for country house and estate insurance, he is very familiar with the challenges faced by historic properties.
Dr. Gillian Dow, Chawton House Library’s Executive Director, said “ Since the restoration of the house that is home to our unique library collection in 1993, the house and grounds have required constant management to ensure their long-term sustainability
“With Anthony’s experience in the management of historic houses, we hope to ensure that Chawton House Library and its heritage is preserved for future generations and enjoyed by as many people as possible in accordance with our charitable objectives”.