Jane Austen’s connection to the Lefroy family

The Lefroy family was closely connected with Jane Austen, as is evidenced in any book about her life.

Charles Lefroy, the founder of All Saints’ Church, was the grandson of the Rev Isaac Peter George (called George) and Anne Lefroy.  George was the rector of the church of Holy Trinity and St. Andrew’s in Ashe, just one and a half miles from St. Nicholas’ Church, Steventon where Jane’s father was rector.

There was much toing and froing between the two families, and the children spent time together.  However, as Jane grew and her love of writing matured, it was Anne Lefroy (born Brydges), Rev Lefroy’s wife, with whom she formed a close bond. Anne was to become a mentor and friend to Jane, as the two women shared a love of writing, literature and poetry. Anne had an extensive library and was a published poet. Sadly, Anne died in a riding accident in 1804, aged 55.  Jane was devastated and wrote a moving poem lamenting the loss of her friend.

But it is Tom Lefroy (George’s nephew) about whom there is much speculation. Tom stayed with George and Anne at Ashe in 1796, whilst reading for the Bar in London. During his stay Tom and Jane spent time together, attending balls, discussing books and sharing opinions. There was an obvious romantic attraction between the two,

but it was not to be, and after a whirlwind romance Tom was sent back to London. Jane wrote:

‘At length the day is come on which I am to flirt my last with Tom Lefroy, and when you receive this it will be over. My tears flow as I write at the melancholy idea.’

Many scholars credit Tom Lefroy as being the inspiration for Mr. Darcy and it is said, their romance allowed Jane to write with authority about love.

A further link between the two families came in 1814 when Anna, daughter of James Austen (Jane’s eldest brother) married Benjamin Lefroy, son of Rev George and Anne Lefroy.  Benjamin was an uncle of Charles Lefroy, founder of All Saints.

Prepared by: Dr Jan Cole.