Helen Geake, a distinguished British archaeologist, is renowned for her deep expertise in early medieval Britain, particularly the Anglo-Saxon period. Over the years, she has built a remarkable career that blends academia, public archaeology, and media presence. From her significant contributions to archaeological research and publications to her role as a television expert on Channel 4’s Time Team, Geake’s work has shaped the understanding of Anglo-Saxon history and culture. In this article, we will explore her life, career, contributions, and legacy.
Helen Geake Early Life and Education
Helen Mary Geake was born in 1967 in Wolverhampton, England. Raised in Bath, she initially pursued a career as a secretary before discovering her passion for archaeology. Her interest in the field was sparked by reading archaeological books and attending lectures by Mick Aston, a prominent archaeologist who would later play a crucial role in her professional life. Inspired by Aston’s work, Geake decided to pursue a career in archaeology.
She studied medieval archaeology at University College London and later continued her education at the University of York, where she completed a Doctor of Philosophy (DPhil) focusing on Anglo-Saxon cemeteries. Her doctoral thesis, titled The Use of Grave-Goods in Conversion-Period England c.600–c.850 A.D., was submitted in 1995. The research examined the burial practices of the Anglo-Saxons and provided new insights into the period following the Sutton Hoo ship burial.
Helen Geake Professional Career
Helen Geake’s professional journey began after completing her studies, initially working as the assistant keeper of archaeology at Norwich Castle Museum. During this period, she worked with a wide variety of finds, helping shape museum collections and curating exhibits that contributed to the public’s understanding of the early medieval period.
However, Geake’s most significant role came when she joined the Portable Antiquities Scheme (PAS) in 2002. As a finds liaison officer for Suffolk, she assisted members of the public in identifying and recording archaeological finds, often helping uncover remarkable treasures hidden beneath the soil of Britain. She also played a key role in advising on post-Roman objects, working from Cambridge University, where her expertise helped expand the scope of the PAS’s work in Anglo-Saxon and medieval archaeology.
Geake’s role with PAS expanded as she became a regional adviser and later an expert for early-medieval finds, based at the British Museum. Her contributions to the scheme helped foster collaborations between professional archaeologists, metal detectorists, and the public, ensuring that valuable archaeological materials were preserved and studied. As of 2024, she continues to serve as the finds liaison officer for Norfolk and is the PAS’s early-medieval finds adviser, solidifying her status as a leader in the field.
Media Career: Time Team and Other Appearances
Helen Geake’s media career began when she appeared on Time Team, a Channel 4 television series that explored various archaeological digs across the UK. She joined the team in 1998 as a digger and occasionally appeared as an Anglo-Saxon expert. However, it was in 2006 that Geake became a regular member of the Time Team family, serving as the show’s Anglo-Saxon expert until its final series in 2010.
Her time on Time Team gave her a platform to share her knowledge of early medieval archaeology with the public, presenting complex archaeological concepts in a way that was both accessible and engaging. Geake’s enthusiasm for the Anglo-Saxon period and her approachable manner made her a beloved figure on the show.
Beyond Time Team, Geake also appeared in several other notable television programs. She featured in National Geographic specials such as Saxon Gold: New Secrets Revealed (2011) and Saxon Gold: Finding the Hoard (2010), both of which explored some of the most significant archaeological finds from the Anglo-Saxon period. She also participated in Britain’s Secret Treasures (2012), a series that delved into historical artifacts and their cultural significance.
Geake’s media presence has played an essential role in popularizing the study of Anglo-Saxon archaeology, making her a familiar face for many archaeology enthusiasts.
Helen Geake Political Involvement
In addition to her archaeological work, Helen Geake has also been actively involved in politics as a member of the Green Party. Geake’s political career began when she stood as the Green Party candidate for Bury St Edmunds in the 2015 and 2017 general elections. While she did not secure a parliamentary seat, she received 7.9% and 4.2% of the vote, respectively, demonstrating her ability to engage with the electorate on important environmental and political issues.
In the 2019 general election, Geake saw a marked increase in support, receiving 15.7% of the vote, a testament to her growing influence within the Green Party. Beyond parliamentary elections, Geake was elected to the Mid Suffolk District Council in 2019, where she represented the Elmswell & Woolpit ward alongside fellow Green Party councillor Sarah Mansel. However, she chose not to seek re-election in the 2023 council elections, indicating her shift in focus back to her archaeological work and public service.
Helen Geake Personal Life
Helen Geake’s personal life is closely linked to her professional endeavors, particularly through her marriage to Angus Wainwright, the National Trust archaeologist for the East of England. Together, the couple shares a deep passion for archaeology and heritage conservation. They have three children – two sons and a daughter – and are known for being active in the local community.
Geake is also a cousin of the late John E. Geake, after whom the asteroid 9298 Geake is named. This connection to the wider scientific community reflects the broader legacy of discovery and exploration that runs through her family.
Contributions to Public Archaeology
In addition to her professional roles, Geake has made significant contributions to public archaeology. She has spoken at various archaeological festivals, including the Saxon Festival in Woodbridge, where she discussed excavations at Sutton Hoo and the impact of those discoveries on our understanding of Anglo-Saxon culture. Geake is also a trustee of The Sutton Hoo Ship’s Company, an organization dedicated to the recreation of the famous Sutton Hoo longship, which was inspired by the famous Anglo-Saxon burial site.
Through her talks, publications, and media appearances, Geake has brought the rich history of Anglo-Saxon Britain to a wider audience, fostering an appreciation for the past and the importance of preserving cultural heritage for future generations.
Legacy and Recognition
Helen Geake’s work has not gone unnoticed within the archaeological community. In 2003, she was elected as a Fellow of the Society of Antiquaries of London, recognizing her significant contributions to the field. Her involvement with PAS, Time Team, and other archaeological projects has left an indelible mark on the study of early medieval Britain, particularly the Anglo-Saxon period.
Her commitment to making archaeology accessible to the public, combined with her expertise and engaging presence, has made Geake a respected figure in both academic and popular circles. Her ongoing work with PAS ensures that her legacy will continue to shape the field of archaeology for years to come.
Conclusion
Helen Geake’s career is a testament to the power of combining academic rigor with public engagement. Through her work in archaeology, television, and public outreach, she has significantly advanced the study of Anglo-Saxon Britain. From her early education to her work with PAS and Time Team, Geake has become a prominent figure in the world of archaeology, leaving a legacy that will inspire future generations of scholars, enthusiasts, and the public alike. Whether through her groundbreaking research, television appearances, or political involvement, Helen Geake’s impact on the world of archaeology is profound and enduring.