An Interview with… Pauline Roland, archaeological volunteer

Pauline is an experienced fieldwork archaeologist who has volunteered on excavations throughout Kent for a number of years. I began by asking Pauline to tell us a bit more about her background:

PR: I started my career about forty years ago as an Occupational Therapist, became a social worker and ended up as South East England’s Area Manager for the National Autistic Society. Very different to my current lifestyle.

RT: What got you interested in archaeology?

PR: I always have, from a child, been interested in history and particular ancient civilisations and early man. I have over the years pursued some qualifications through the Open University and other distance learning institutions. So it seemed natural on retirement to seek opportunities to be more involved in my local history.

RT: How and why did you become an archaeological volunteer?

PR: Happy chance started my involvement in archaeology. While walking in Shorne Country Park,

I came upon Roger (Cockett) who was doing some advanced preparation for the Randall Manor dig. He put me in touch with Andrew (Mayfield), and I was hooked!

RT: What excavations have you been involved with?

PR: Wow, when I try to count I realise so many, over 30 different sites, from palaeolithic Twydall, Mesolithic Ranscombe and Shorne, Lyminge, East Wear, Otford, Ebbsfleet and Worth, Randall, Cobham village and Rose Hill to name but a few, as well as some rescue archaeology.

RT: How has your archaeological skill set evolved; can you give any examples?

PR: Obviously over the years the range of sites has enabled me to learn many new skills not just in excavation but also helping with magnetometry, finds identification processing and conservation, section drawing and planning, field walking, ground truthing LiDAR and helping to create exhibitions and displays and so much more.

Now you have asked I am surprised with the breadth of opportunity I have had to develop my skills.

RT: What are the best and worst things about being an archaeological volunteer?

PR: The best is probably exploring the history of Kent with likeminded people …the camaraderie. The worst, hoping the “body holds out” after a heavy day digging.

RT: Given your excavation experience, have you been aware of a distinction between yourself as a “volunteer” and “professional” archaeologists when on site over the years?

PR: Generally no – though some site directors vary in their attitude to volunteers.

RT: How long have you been a member of the KAS?

PR: Just two years.

RT: How do you view the KAS… are its aims compatible with that of an archaeological volunteer?

PR: It’s hard to say… I feel it could do more to support local archaeology groups with their projects, possibly financially, equipment loan, insurance, training opportunities, etc. Perhaps helping to inform the membership and broader community of current excavations and schemes and how to get involved. An annual symposium or conference to enable groups to meet and share the year’s activities with others in the county would be invaluable.

RT: Any message for the KAS Leadership Team?

PR: Perhaps the society needs to concentrate not just on the current membership but how we encourage new young members and their families to become involved, see the benefits of participating in understanding their history, and so help protect and value its future.