Born: 27 December 1942
Died: 18 January 2021
Biography:
Nancy Clausen Wilkie (27 December 1942 – 18 January 2021) was an American archaeologist who made significant contributions to the field. Known for her work in Greece, Egypt, Sri Lanka, and Nepal, Wilkie’s expertise and dedication helped shape our understanding of ancient civilizations.
Wilkie began her archaeological career as a graduate student at the University of Minnesota. In 1968, she joined the University of Minnesota Messenia Expedition (UMME), a project focused on excavating and surveying archaeological sites in the region of Messenia, Greece. During her time with the UMME, Wilkie played a key role in the excavation of the Mycenaean site of Nichoria. Her work as a trench supervisor and her subsequent PhD thesis on the site’s tholos tomb showcased her exceptional talent and passion for the field.
One of Wilkie’s notable achievements was her extensive involvement with the publication of the results of the Nichoria excavations. The findings, which were released in 1992, significantly contributed to our knowledge of Mycenaean society and culture. Wilkie’s dedication to meticulous research and her organizational skills played a crucial role in ensuring the successful publication of this significant archaeological data.
Throughout her career, Wilkie demonstrated her versatility and aptitude for leading archaeological projects. She led the excavation of Kom Dahab, an Egyptian site situated in the Nile Delta region. This project provided valuable insights into ancient Egyptian civilization and its connection to the Nile.
From 1985 to 1996, Wilkie directed the Grevena archaeological project, a large-scale field survey carried out in northern Greece. This extensive survey aimed to document and analyze the region’s archaeological remains, shedding light on the ancient settlements and their cultural implications. Her leadership and expertise greatly contributed to the project’s success.
Wilkie’s contributions extended beyond fieldwork. She actively engaged in the field of cultural heritage management, serving on the Archaeological Institute of America’s (AIA) Conservation and Site Protection Committee. Additionally, she played a pivotal role in the establishment of the US committee of Blue Shield International, an organization dedicated to safeguarding cultural remains. Her commitment to protecting cultural heritage led to her appointment to the Cultural Property Advisory Committee, where she served from 2003 until 2017. In this capacity, she advised the President of the United States on matters relating to cultural heritage.
Having dedicated her entire career to education, Wilkie taught at Carleton College in Minnesota. Her passion for archaeology and her commitment to passing on knowledge to future generations made her a highly respected and influential figure in academia. She retired from Carleton College in 2013, leaving behind a legacy of exceptional teaching and mentorship.
Nancy Wilkie’s impact on society and her contributions to the field of archaeology are immeasurable. Her research, excavation work, and commitment to cultural heritage preservation have advanced our understanding of ancient civilizations. Through her leadership and dedication, she has inspired countless individuals to pursue their passion for archaeology and has left an indelible mark on the field.
Awards:
– [List of any official awards or recognitions received by Nancy Wilkie]