Women in Archaeology

Women have long shaped archaeological knowledge, from early pioneers such as Catherine Downes and Margaret Murray to practitioners working today. Their participation, however, has often been discouraged or overlooked, and their achievements sometimes credited to others. Women are also central to archaeological interpretation, yet marginalisation persists. The shift from ‘Rescue’ excavation to commercial archaeology within the planning process during the 1990s significantly widened opportunities, and women today make up almost half of the UK archaeology workforce. This talk celebrates the achievements of women in archaeology and explores the key trends, contributions and influence of women in the discipline, with a particular focus on those connected to Sussex.

Kayt Hawkins is a Senior Archaeologist at Archaeology South-East, UCL, with more than 30 years’ experience in developer-led archaeology. Her research interests include Roman Britain, the archaeology of childhood, and women’s participation in archaeology. In 2025, Kayt co-edited Documenting Activism, Creating Change: Archaeology and the Legacy of MeToo with Professor Hannah Cobb (University of Manchester).

The museum will be open from 6pm for those wanting to visit the ChichestHER exhibition beforehand.

Free, booking essential.