The will of Jane Austen showcased at National Archives for Jane Austen 200 anniversary

The National Archives at Kew is showcasing the will of author Jane Austen, as part of commemoration for the 200th anniversary of the death of the popular novelist, on 19 July.

The will, which is on display in the Keeper's Gallery at National Archives until October 2017, is dated 27 April 1817, three months before the author's death at the age of 41. With the exception of a few small legacies, including £50 to her brother, Jane left "everything" to her sister Cassandra. The will reads:

“I Jane Austen of the Parish of Chawton do by this my last Will & Testament give and bequeath to my dearest Sister Cassandra Elizth everything of which I may die possessed, or which may be hereafter due to me, subject to the payment of my Funeral Expences, & to a Legacy of £ 50. to my Brother Henry, & £ 50. to Mde Bigeon–which I request may be paid as soon as convenient. And I appoint my said dear Sister the Executrix of this my last Will & Testament.”

Jane Austen 200th anniversary event

(Image copyright The National Archives)