Sir Frederic Kenyon, G.B.E., K.C.B

Abstract

THE anniversary meeting of the Society of Antiquaries of London on April 27 marked the retirement of Sir Frederic G. Kenyon from the office of president, which he had held since 1934, the statutory period of five years. His term of office has covered a period in the history of the Society of enhanced activity in the field—the excavation of Maiden Castle is a permanent landmark in the study of British prehistory —in the promotion of archasological studies, and in efforts to preserve the antiquarian remains of Great Britain. Sir Frederic's wise leadership and tactful conduct of the Society's affairs have been more than worthy of the great tradition of the long line of his predecessors. His own special interests as an eminent authority on early classical and Biblical texts from papyrological and other sources have in no way been allowed, in the performance of his official duties, to colour, though they may have added inspiration to, his judgment in the broader fields of archaeological research. Sir Frederic Kenyon was director and principal librarian of the British Museum (Blooms-bury) from 1909 until 1930. Since his retirement, he has devoted himself strenuously to the advancement of learning and research by taking part in the administration of several learned societies and other bodies, including the British Academy, the Society for the Promotion of Hellenic Studies, and the Society for the Protection of Science and Learning. Sir Frederic is succeeded as president of the Society of Antiquaries by Mr. Alfred William Clapham, secretary since 1929, and secretary of the Royal Commission on Historical Monuments, England, since 1933. Dr. R. E. Mortimer Wheeler will succeed Mr. Clapham as secretary of the Society.