Obituary: Dave Earnshaw (1944–2023)

Dave Earnshaw played a vital role as one of the founding members of Studying History and Archaeology in Lympne (SHAL). He shared a passion for history and archaeology with his wife, Lynn, which led them to travel extensively across the country to visit famous sites. Dave was a knowledgeable and well-read individual with an impressive memory, making him an invaluable participant in discussions. However, it was Dave’s practical skills that earned him recognition in SHAL. As a trained welder, he contributed significantly to the organisation’s practical archaeology projects by producing items. Dave was always present to help with resistivity, magnetometry, and excavations with enthusiasm, energy, and a good sense of humour, regardless of the weather conditions. In 2022, he led the excavation of a Roman cremation burial, mentoring two young archaeologists on excavation techniques, an accomplishment I know he was incredibly proud of.

I met Dave for the first time in 2017, and we hit it off immediately. Our friendship and working relationship were built on our shared interest in all things Roman and our ability to make each other laugh. It’s interesting to note that we made a promise to each other that before our archaeological careers were over, we would find actual evidence of Caesar’s landing places in 54 and 55 BC. My final conversation with Dave was shortly after August’s recent Carausian discoveries at Lympne. Although Dave couldn’t visit the site in person due to his ill health, we spent much time discussing the findings via WhatsApp. He was thrilled to hear about it. I sent him a copy of Simon Elliott’s book, Roman Britain’s Pirate King, which Simon graciously signed with a personal message. Dave really appreciated this gesture.

Dave will be remembered for his knowledge, skills, and happy, caring nature and is sadly missed

By SHAL & Richard Taylor.