Librarian's Austen Ancestry Uncovered

A librarian at The Abbey School in Reading has uncovered an astonishing genealogical link to the celebrated author Jane Austen. Joanne Wenman discovered that her eleventh great-grandfather, Thomas Austen, born in 1534, is a direct ancestor of the famous novelist. This discovery deeply resonates with Ms. Wenman, who has been a lifelong admirer of Austen's work and works at a school named in honor of Austen's educational institution.

Ms. Wenman's research revealed she is Jane Austen's sixth cousin, six times removed. The discovery occurred while she was exploring her family tree, an endeavor she began two years ago. The unexpected appearance of the Austen name, particularly a Jane Austen from the 17th century, filled her with excitement, especially given the historical significance of the name and her deep admiration for the author's literary contributions.

The connection is further amplified by the school's own historical ties to Jane Austen's education. The Abbey School is named after the Reading Abbey Gateway, where Austen herself studied. This confluence of personal ancestry and institutional heritage makes the discovery particularly meaningful for Ms. Wenman and the entire school community, strengthening their already profound connection to the literary icon.