Alexander Keiller (archaeologist)
Scottish archaeologist / From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
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Alexander Keiller FSA, FGS (1 December 1889 – 29 October 1955) was a Scottish archaeologist, pioneering aerial photographer, businessman and philanthropist. He worked on an extensive prehistoric site at Avebury in Wiltshire, England, and helped ensure its preservation.
Alexander Keiller | |
---|---|
Born | 1 December 1889 |
Died | 1955(1955-00-00) (aged 65–66) |
Nationality | Scottish |
Citizenship | United Kingdom |
Academic background | |
Education | Hazelwood School Eton College |
Academic work | |
Discipline | Archaeology |
Sub-discipline | |
Keiller was heir to the marmalade business of his family, James Keiller & Son that had been established in 1797[1] in Dundee, and exported marmalade and confectionery across the British Empire. He used his wealth to acquire a total of 950 acres (3.8 km2) of land in Avebury for preservation, where he conducted excavations and re-erected some standing stones. He also pioneered aerial photography for archaeological interpretation.[2]
At Avebury, Keiller founded the Morven Institute of Archeological Research,[3] now the Alexander Keiller Museum.[4][5] In 1943 he sold the land at Avebury to the National Trust for its agricultural value only.[2]
His fourth wife, Gabrielle Keiller, was also an archaeological photographer, whom he met in connection with Avebury.