Celebrating the Life of Archaeologist Barbara Hurman at 100

Barbara Hurman, a distinguished archaeologist known for her expertise in identifying and illustrating archaeological finds, passed away at the age of 100. Her impactful career spanned various esteemed organizations, including the Buckinghamshire County Museum, the Milton Keynes Archaeological Unit, and the Museum of London. She made remarkable contributions to archaeology, particularly during her late 70s, when she served as the finds supervisor and ceramic analyst for the excavation of a Roman site in Veliko Tarnovo, Bulgaria.

Throughout her career, Barbara was dedicated to advancing the field of archaeology. She played a pivotal role in establishing the Association of Archaeological Illustrators and Surveyors, where she also served as technical paper editor. Her commitment to education and research was evident in her work as an assistant editor for the Medieval Later Pottery Research Group’s Guide to the Classification of Medieval Ceramic Forms. Barbara co-authored the book Pots, Potters and Potteries of Buckinghamshire in 2019, further solidifying her legacy in the field.

Born as a twin in Thornton Heath, London, Barbara was the daughter of Charles Sanders, an engineering clerk, and Jeanie Coleman, a housewife. The family relocated to the coastal village of Silecroft in Cumbria, where Barbara’s early life laid the foundation for her remarkable journey. After completing her education at Millom School, she attended secretarial college before enlisting in the Auxiliary Territorial Service (ATS) and the Royal Corps of Signals during World War II.

During her military service, Barbara played a crucial role as a teleprinter operator, stationed at Fort Widley in Portsmouth during the D-Day operations. Her service continued in Italy, where she operated teleprinters in locations including Caserta, Naples, and Padua. She was demobilized in 1947, having attained the rank of sergeant.

Following her military service, Barbara worked in Egypt as a secretary for the Navy, Army, and Air Force Institutes. It was in Egypt that she met her future husband, Gordon Hurman, whom she married in 1950 at the British Consulate in Suez. Their return to the UK in 1970 marked a turning point for Barbara, allowing her to pursue her passion for archaeology after raising her family.

Barbara dedicated herself to extensive study, engaging with institutions such as the Universities of London, Oxford, and Keele. Her passion led her to become actively involved with the Bucks Archaeological Society and the local County Museum, where she contributed to various excavations, organized volunteers, and delivered public talks.

In her later years, Barbara became an advocate for recognizing the contributions of servicewomen during World War II. Her efforts included providing interviews to news outlets and participating in formal events. Notably, she delivered a reading at Westminster Abbey in 2015, commemorating the 70th anniversary of VE Day. She also had the honor of meeting Queen Elizabeth II while assisting in the launch of the Together at Christmas initiative.

At the age of 99, Barbara was invited to attend an official reception at Buckingham Palace, celebrating the 80th anniversary of VE Day. Her commitment to service and heritage left an indelible mark on the community and the field of archaeology.

Barbara is survived by her three children, David, Susan, and her daughter, who authored this obituary, as well as three grandchildren and four great-grandchildren. Her legacy as a pioneering archaeologist and dedicated servicewoman will be remembered by many.