Anna Marguerite McCann

Anna_McCann_at_Populonia_1974

Anna Marguerite McCann (1933–2017) was a pioneering American underwater archaeologist and classical art historian. She is widely recognized for her contributions to the field of underwater archaeology and her extensive research on ancient Roman and Greek art.

Early Life and Education

Anna Marguerite McCann was born in 1933. She developed an early interest in archaeology and classical studies, which led her to pursue higher education in these fields. McCann earned her undergraduate degree from Wellesley College and later completed her Ph.D. in classical art and archaeology at New York University.

Career

McCann's career in underwater archaeology began in the 1960s when she joined the pioneering underwater excavations at Carthage and Yassi Ada. She was one of the first women to engage in underwater archaeological research, a field that was predominantly male at the time. Her work at these sites contributed significantly to the understanding of ancient maritime trade and shipbuilding techniques.

In addition to her fieldwork, McCann held various academic positions, including teaching roles at Boston University and Tufts University. She also worked as a curator at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York, where she specialized in classical art.

Contributions to Underwater Archaeology

McCann's most notable contributions to underwater archaeology include her research on ancient shipwrecks and submerged port cities. Her work at the site of Portus, the ancient port of Rome, provided valuable insights into the infrastructure and operations of one of the most important harbors of the ancient world.

She also published extensively on the subject, with numerous articles and books that have become essential references for scholars in the field. Her publications include detailed studies of underwater excavation techniques, artifact conservation, and the interpretation of underwater archaeological sites.

Awards and Recognition

Throughout her career, McCann received numerous awards and honors for her contributions to archaeology and classical studies. She was a member of several prestigious organizations, including the Archaeological Institute of America and the American Academy of Arts and Sciences.

Legacy

Anna Marguerite McCann's pioneering work in underwater archaeology has left a lasting impact on the field. Her dedication to uncovering and preserving the underwater heritage of ancient civilizations has inspired a new generation of archaeologists and researchers.

Related Pages

• Underwater archaeology
• Roman art
• Greek art
• Carthage
• Yassi Ada
• Portus
• Metropolitan Museum of Art
• Archaeological Institute of America