ARCHAEOLOGIST ON ISLAND

 

Archaeologist John Barber
Archaeologist John Barber

On Island for two months is Archaeologist John Barber (photo attached), contracted by the St Helena Government to work with staff in the Environment and Natural Resources Directorate, St Helena National Trust and Museum of St Helena.

John is based at Essex House and during his time on Island will be assisting with the development and treatment of archaeology, both in the Development (Planning) Process, but also as a genuine phenomenon on St Helena.

John explains:

“Heritage expands into many aspects such as development control, education, excavation, archiving, museum-based work and cultural tourism.

“My principal role here is to try and find a way in which we can balance both development and heritage conservation by putting into place certain systems. To do this we will have to train the people who work within the development process.

“I am impressed with the range and quality of work that has already been undertaken with the limited resources available. Overall I hope to build on the excellent work that has already been done, to help the heritage sector make a positive contribution to the economy of St Helena, and contribute to the quality of life of Saints and visitors alike.”

John started his career with ‘Historic Scotland’ working on ‘rescue excavations’ – excavating large numbers of historical monuments and assisting with the administration of all other excavations taking place in Scotland during that time. 

John now works as a Commercial Archaeologist working for developers and excavating sites before they are built upon. John also works with local communities so they can become more actively engaged in their own heritage – deriving benefit from it and supporting its conservation for future generations.

John has a Masters Degree in Archaeology and is currently studying for a PHD in the Architecture of Ancient structures with Edinburgh University in Scotland. This is his first visit to the Island – John will depart St Helena on 24 April 2014.

SHG

11 March 2014

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St Helena Government Communications Hub

Telephone: 22470
Email: kimberley.peters@sainthelena.gov.sh