Listening to our Past: Recording the History of Maritime Archaeology

We are delighted to be working with the Honor Frost Foundation (HFF) on a project to collect oral histories from individuals who have contributed to the development of maritime archaeology as a discipline. MAT is using our experience with maritime archives to assist the HFF to deliver this project which is just one of a number they have been undertaking to understand histories and archives of maritime archaeology.

It has been recognised that rapid transformations occurred in maritime archaeology from the 1950’s – 1980’s. Much of this change remains undocumented, however, there is still an opportunity to capture that information from the individuals who were involved. Physical archives which can also provide information about how the discipline developed, as well as recording oral histories from key individuals, both allow for a better understanding of the history of maritime archaeology. Over the course of the next 12 – 18 months the HFF and MAT will begin to identify key individuals, undertake interviews and gather information on personal archives that may require a long term home in the future.

More information on the project is available from the website:

https://honorfrostfoundation.org/archive-and-soundings/listening-to-our-past/

We would be delighted to hear from anyone that was active in the early years of maritime archaeology (and/ or is still active!), if you would be happy to provide an interview or if you know someone who you think should then please fill in the form that can be accessed on the project website.