Leslie Peter Wenham[1] FSA (1911 – 29 January 1990) was a British archaeologist, historian, and professor who excavated in York, on Hadrian's Wall and Malton. He was the first to produce a comprehensive report of a Romano-British Cemetery.[2]
Leslie Peter Wenham
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L. P. Wenham with a model of Roman York
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| Born | 1911
Richmond, North Yorkshire, England
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| Died | (1990-01-29)29 January 1990 (aged 78)
Richmond, North Yorkshire, England
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| Nationality | English |
| Citizenship | United Kingdom |
| Alma mater | University of Durham |
| Known for | Excavation in York and extensive publication in archaeology |
| Scientific career | |
| Fields | History Archaeology |
| Institutions | University of York |
| Academic advisors | Eric Birley |
He is known for his extensive publications in archaeology. He was elected a Fellow of the Society of Antiquaries of London in 1970. Wenham served with the Royal Army Ordnance Corps during the Second World War.
Wenham graduated from Durham University in 1933 with an honours degree in modern history.[2] He spent some time excavating under Eric Birley in the civilian settlement at Housesteads Roman FortonHadrian's Wall.[1] During the Second World War he served with the Royal Army Ordnance Corps. In 1951, he was appointed lecturer in history at St. John's College, York.[2] He would later become head of the History department and remained part of the college until his retirement in 1974.
Wenham was a prolific excavator in and around York, frequently publishing his excavations with the Yorkshire Archaeological Society. He had a particular interest in the defences of the Fortress at Eboracum (modern day York).[3][4] He excavated throughout the city during the 1950s, 60s and 70s, at locations including King's Square,[5] Davygate, Petergate[6] and St Mary Bishophill Junior, York. His excavations at Trentholme Drive resulted in the first comprehensive report of a Romano-British Cemetery; it had been excavated as part of an archaeological investigation rather than during building work.[2][7][8] Wenham was the editor of the Yorkshire Archaeological Journal between 1955 and 1968.[9]
He was elected a Fellow of the Society of Antiquaries of London on 8 January 1970.[1][2]