Anna Marguerite McCann, first female American underwater archaeologist (b. 1933)

Anna Marguerite McCann (May 11, 1933 – February 12, 2017) was a pioneering American art historian and archaeologist whose groundbreaking work significantly shaped the field of underwater archaeology, particularly concerning ancient Roman maritime history. Renowned for her intellectual rigor and adventurous spirit, McCann broke significant barriers, leaving an indelible mark on both academic scholarship and archaeological methodology.

Pioneering the Depths: A Legacy in Underwater Archaeology

Dr. Anna Marguerite McCann is celebrated as an early and highly influential figure in the nascent field of underwater archaeology, a discipline she helped legitimize and advance during its formative years. Notably, she holds the distinction of being the first American woman to lead significant underwater archaeological expeditions, commencing her groundbreaking work in the 1960s. At a time when underwater exploration was often driven by treasure hunters or loosely organized efforts, McCann brought a crucial academic and scientific approach, emphasizing meticulous documentation, preservation, and contextual understanding of submerged sites.

Her expeditions, primarily focused on the Mediterranean Sea, revolutionized the study of ancient trade routes and Roman shipwrecks. A prominent example includes her work on the Skerki Bank shipwrecks off the coast of Sicily in the late 1980s. Collaborating with oceanographer Robert Ballard (famous for discovering the *Titanic*), McCann utilized advanced deep-sea robotic technology, including remotely operated vehicles (ROVs), to meticulously explore and document a cluster of ancient Roman and Punic merchant vessels resting at depths of over 800 meters. This expedition was pivotal in demonstrating the potential of sophisticated technology for non-intrusive deep-water archaeology, opening new frontiers for understanding ancient maritime economies and cultural exchange. Earlier, she also contributed to the investigation of the Porticello shipwreck off the Calabrian coast.

Scholarly Contributions to Roman Art and Classical Archaeology

Beyond her direct involvement in underwater excavations, McCann was a prolific author and respected scholar specializing in Roman art and Classical archaeology. Her extensive body of work includes monographs, articles, and excavation reports that provided deep insights into various aspects of ancient Roman civilization, from trade networks to artistic expression. Her seminal publication, "Roman Sarcophagi in the Metropolitan Museum of Art" (1978), remains a significant reference in the study of Roman funerary art, showcasing her profound knowledge of Roman sculpture and iconography.

Dr. McCann dedicated a substantial part of her career to educating future generations. She taught both art history and archaeology at several distinguished universities in the United States, including the University of Missouri, the Institute of Fine Arts at New York University (NYU), and Boston University. Through her teaching, she inspired countless students, instilling in them a passion for the ancient world and the rigorous methodologies required for its study.

Accolades and Enduring Legacy

Anna Marguerite McCann's exceptional contributions to archaeology were widely recognized by her peers. She was an active and highly respected member of the Archaeological Institute of America (AIA), the oldest and largest archaeological organization in North America. In recognition of her distinguished achievements in both fieldwork and scholarship, she was awarded the AIA's prestigious Gold Medal Award in 1998. This honor, considered the highest award bestowed by the AIA, celebrates archaeologists who have made outstanding contributions to the field through their research, publications, and impact on archaeological theory and practice, placing her among the luminaries of the discipline.

Her legacy extends beyond her specific discoveries and publications. McCann's pioneering efforts, especially as a woman in a traditionally male-dominated field, paved the way for greater diversity and inclusivity in archaeology. Her insistence on rigorous scientific methods in underwater exploration transformed it from an adventurous pursuit into a respected academic discipline, leaving an enduring model for future generations of archaeologists.

For those researching her extensive bibliography, it is useful to note that Anna Marguerite McCann also published works under the name Anna McCann Taggart.

Frequently Asked Questions About Anna Marguerite McCann

Who was Anna Marguerite McCann?

Anna Marguerite McCann was a prominent American art historian and archaeologist, best known for being a pioneering figure and the first American woman in the field of underwater archaeology, particularly concerning ancient Roman shipwrecks.

What was her primary contribution to archaeology?

Her primary contribution was transforming underwater archaeology into a rigorous scientific discipline, leading groundbreaking expeditions (like those at Skerki Bank) that used advanced technology to study ancient Roman maritime trade, and establishing best practices for excavation and preservation of submerged cultural heritage.

What prestigious award did she receive?

In 1998, Anna Marguerite McCann received the Gold Medal Award from the Archaeological Institute of America (AIA), its highest honor for distinguished contributions to the field of archaeology.

Did she publish under any other name?

Yes, some of her works were published under the name Anna McCann Taggart.