Archaeology in Australia: In Conversation with Judy Birmingham

In this in-depth interview, renowned historical archaeologist Judy Birmingham reflects on her pioneering academic career at the University of Sydney and memories of her time with the National Trust. The recording is part of a series of National Trust interviews that aim to capture the stories of heritage conservation in NSW.

Trailblazing Australian archaeologist Judy Birmingham.

Judy Birmingham is a pioneer of Australian historical and industrial archaeology. Alongside her groundbreaking work, she played a pivotal role in the foundation of multiple organisations, including the Australian International Council on Monuments and Sites (ICOMOS), the National Trust (NSW)’s Industrial Archaeology Committee and the Australian (now Australasian) Society for Historical Archaeology. Judy was also on the drafting committee for the Burra Charter, widely regarded as the most important document for conservation of heritage places in Australia. Known as an inspiring archaeology lecturer in 2017 she was awarded a Member of the Order of Australia.

 

Judy spoke with the National Trust at her home in Lismore, NSW. The interview covers Judy’s childhood and early education in England, her university education and recollections of meeting prominent personalities in archaeology. She also recounts her trailblazing academic career and her time with the National Trust.

This interview was recorded over three days in April 2023, hosted by Isabella Trope with audio-visual work by Tess Cornwall.

In 1979 Judy was also interviewed as part of a series entitled ‘Our Industrial Past’.
You can listen to the interview below:

Learn more

The National Trust (NSW) oral history project aims to capture the stories of Australians who are involved in the politics of heritage conservation, are a significant custodian of a site, knowledge or event, or have a long history with the National Trust.

Each of these oral histories delve into a person’s life story, and are recorded as a long-form interview with few set questions. Explore other recordings in the series.

If you would like to use these recordings, please contact the National Trust archives.