The Font cover above has been designed, constructed and carved by J.S.Smyth of Greywell, Hampshire for St Nicholas Church, Steventon.

Almost two years before its construction, members of the Wisconsin Region of the Jane Austen Society of North America offered a generous contribution toward the cost of this unique treasure. Visitors from the North Coast, Ohio Region and other members have also contributed. On the Font Cover is a Saxon Cross. This is significant as a Saxon Cross shaft, found many years ago in a a wall of a nearby Manor House and stands in the church. The Monk at prayer at the foot of the cross is a reminder of the time before the church was built, when monks would travel through the countryside to preach the Gospel to the villagers gathering around the cross. The sheep depict both gentleness and Christ's flock.