Welcome back to Chawton House Library Conversations. First launched on Sunday 8th March 2015 in celebration of International Women’s Day, our monthly podcast is a round up of news, events and highlights, helping you stay connected with Chawton House Library wherever you are.
April’s podcast features an interview with two experts on Maria Graham (1785-1842) – the first woman to forge a whole career in travel writing. Professional book conservator, Caroline Bendix and her intern Georgia Genco tell us why working with the Chawton House Library collection has been such a unique and enjoyable experience. Dress Historian, Curator and Visiting Fellow at Chawton House Library in March, Hilary Davidson weighs the balance of truth in the Knight family legend of Edward Austen’s silk suit. Finally, one of our trustees, Richard Knight – a descendant of Edward’s – describes the beautiful grounds and gardens of the Library.
Look as you listen
Here are some of the things you will hear described in this month’s Chawton House Library Conversations podcast:
The portrait of Maria Graham by John Jackson that hangs in the Exhibition Room here at Chawton House Library.
The portrait of Thomas Graham by Sir Henry Raeburn, placed opposite that of his wife, Maria.
This portrait of Edward Knight (formerly Austen) hangs in the Dining Room.
The walled kitchen garden built by Edward Knight.
Edward Austen’s silk suit?
Book conservation intern Georgia Genco training a group of volunteers.
See it for yourself:
All of the treasures featured in our podcasts are waiting to be discovered at Chawton House Library. We are now open Tuesday to Friday, 2.00 pm until 4.30 pm until the 30th October. Find out more about planning your visit here.
If you would like to know more about supporting our book conservation appeal, follow the link to watch a short film and read about how you can make a difference to the campaign here.
Did you miss out on Chawton House Library’s March Podcast? Catch up here.
We would like to say a special thank you to North American Friend of Chawton House Library, Sue Forgue, whose kind and generous sponsorship has made Chawton House Library Conversations possible.