Michael G. Jarrett (1934 – 1990) was a prominent British archaeologist, widely recognized for his significant contributions to the study of Roman Britain, with a particular focus on the Roman presence in Wales. His academic career at University College, Cardiff (now Cardiff University), cemented his reputation as a leading authority on Roman military and civilian archaeology in the region.
Early Life and Career
Born in 1934, Jarrett developed a keen interest in archaeology from an early age. He pursued his academic studies and eventually joined the Department of Archaeology at University College, Cardiff. Over his career, he rose to become a Lecturer and then a Reader in Archaeology. He played a crucial role in the department's development, directing its archaeological activities and influencing a generation of students and researchers.
Research and Contributions
Jarrett's primary research interest lay in the Roman occupation of Wales. He led and participated in numerous archaeological excavations at key Roman sites across the country, including the auxiliary fort at Castell Collen and various locations in Glamorgan. These investigations yielded invaluable data, enhancing the understanding of Roman military strategy, frontier organization, and the interaction between Roman forces and indigenous populations in Wales.
One of his most notable and enduring contributions is his co-authorship with George C. Boon of The Roman Frontier in Wales, first published in 1969. This seminal work provided a comprehensive synthesis of the Roman military frontier in Wales, detailing forts, roads, and associated settlements. It remains a fundamental reference work for anyone studying Roman Wales.
Beyond his specific research projects, Jarrett was a highly respected figure within the broader archaeological community. He served as the President of the Society for the Promotion of Roman Studies from 1987 until his death in 1990, a testament to his standing and influence in the field of Roman studies. He was also a regular and significant contributor to Britannia, the leading journal for research on Roman Britain.
Legacy
Michael Jarrett's work profoundly advanced the understanding of Roman Wales. His meticulous research, extensive excavations, and influential publications, particularly The Roman Frontier in Wales, established a robust framework for subsequent archaeological investigations in the region. He is remembered for his academic rigor, his dedication to the field, and his instrumental role in making Cardiff a significant centre for Roman archaeological studies. He passed away in 1990, leaving behind a substantial scholarly legacy that continues to inform and inspire.
Selected Bibliography
- Jarrett, M.G. & Boon, G.C. (1969). The Roman Frontier in Wales. University of Wales Press. (Revised editions were published subsequently).
- Jarrett, M.G. (1976). Maryport, Cumbria: A Roman Fort and its Garrison. Cumberland and Westmorland Antiquarian and Archaeological Society.
- Numerous articles in academic journals, including Britannia and Archaeologia Cambrensis.