About Andrew

Curator of Archaeology, based at the Yorkshire Museum

Background

From being a young boy I always wanted to be an archaeologist. I studied field archaeology and archaeology before moving over to archaeology in museums. I have worked on excavations across England with a spell in France training conscientious objectors to become excavators.

Prior to coming to work at the Yorkshire Museum I worked for English Heritage as their Senior Curator for the North of England. I worked with a team of curators who looked after a diverse range of heritage collections from Hadrian's Wall, Medieval Abbeys and Castles and Victorian Country Houses.

Interests

I was drawn to work at the Yorkshire Museum as it had such a wide ranging and varied archaeological collection which suited my own interests. Overall it is archaeological objects and what they can tell us about past societies is what excites me.

When not getting excited by such lovely things I can be found cycling, snowboarding, climbing or, more likely these days, playing with soft toys and reading Kipper books.

Why I wanted to be a curator

To play with objects and mud!

Favourite part of my job

Playing with objects - the mud has lost its appeal.

Favourite museum object

The tombstone of Lucius Ducchius Rufinus, the standard bearer of the IXth legion. He died aged 28 in York. His tombstone records him as coming from Vienne in France and that he was a member of the Voltadinian Tribe.

The standard bearer was an important person in a legion and also a dangerous one. The standard, carried in front of the legion, was the main target of enemy aggression. To capture it was a significant victory. To carry it was a very brave and proud act. I always wonder who he was and what he thought!

Historical idol

Obelix!

Proudest moment

Birth of my son, Bill

If you see me, ask me...

Coffee and a Bun? Answer . Yes please!