Kate Tidswell

Kate Tidswell is an Archaeologist with over four years’ experience in the Victorian cultural heritage management industry. Kate completed a Bachelor of Arts at Monash University in 2023 with a major in Archaeology and Ancient History. As part of her degree, Kate also completed a minor study in Anthropology.

Kate is interested in the intersection of archaeology and lived experience, and how the lives of both individuals and communities are reflected, communicated, and experienced through landscape and material culture. In 2023 she attended a field school at Carsulae, an ancient Roman and medieval town in Umbria, Italy as a student field archaeologist – a joint excavation by Associazione per lo Studio del Territorio, la Ricerca e l’Archeologia (ASTRA) and Monash University. Kate is interested in undertaking further study to refine the artefact analysis categories and process to better reflect and utilise traditional knowledges surrounding lithic tools, particularly those that don’t fit within defined categories.

Kate was initially drawn to archaeology through history books as a kid, spending a lot of time learning about Ancient Greece, Rome, and Egypt. Her passion for archaeology emerged as she wanted to work with tangible history in a hands on way. Now, through her work in Victoria, she explores how the production and use of stone tools frames the knowledges, experiences, and practices of the lives of many.

Kate’s practical experience is primarily centred on Aboriginal cultural heritage, including lithic analysis, mechanical and manual excavation, and CHMPs. In addition, Kate has experience in excavating and managing Historical Archaeology sites in collaboration with Heritage Victoria, as well as within Medieval and Roman contexts.

Outside of work Kate loves to spend time crafting (particularly knitting and sewing), spending time with her friends and cat, and reading.

Education and affiliations

• Bachelor of Arts (Archaeology and Ancient History), Monash University, Clayton (2023)
• Membership of the Australian Archaeological Association Inc. (AAA)