Ernest Richmond, Director of the Department of Antiquities in Palestine (1927–37), and His Approach to Archaeological Research by Members of the Jewish Yishuv

This article examines the approach of Ernest Tatham Richmond, director of the Department of Antiquities of the British Mandate government in Palestine from 1927 to 1937, toward the archaeological research of members of the Jewish Yishuv. The initial years of the Mandate reflected a supportive approach toward the Jewish Yishuv, and under the Department’s first director, John Garstang, Jewish research was warmly received. In August 1927, Garstang was replaced by Richmond, who, in his previous position in Palestine as an advisor to the High Commissioner, expressed distinctly anti-Zionist views. Upon starting his new position, members of the Yishuv voiced grievances with his selection; in addition to its scientific value, they regarded archaeology as a means of realizing their national aspirations. The examination of several cases documented in various archives indicate that in the course of his tenure, Richmond treated the Jews and their research fairly, and at times even with a warm and supportive approach. The assessments of a few researchers, who hold that under Richmond’s tenure the Department was biased toward the Arabs, appear to have been influenced by his actions at the beginning of the Mandate and by publications in the Hebrew press. However, a broader examination indicates that, in practice, “Jewish archaeology” actually experienced more substantial growth during his tenure, despite initial difficulties in its development. This observation enables us to better understand the Mandate authorities’ approach toward political developments and local initiatives in the field of archaeology.