Eric Wood, a great amateur archaeologist, was a polymath who not only served the south of England, where he was active, but who also influenced archaeological thought more widely through his written works and by his membership of many policy-forming organisations.
He was a quiet and modest man of strong convictions and deep faith. Despite his great ability he never sought the lime-light. A great number of his projects were achieved through the co-operation of others whom he could form into a team, spurring them on with constant friendship and a sense of purpose, to which he added a gentle humour.
Retaining his status as a qualified amateur, he yet foresaw before others the need to extend professionalism into archaeology, whose practice was growing apace in the boom years of property development after World War II. London's first ever professional unit was set up under him, well ahead of others, in Southwark and Lambeth in 1972.
Eric knew both the joys and griefs of family life. After the death of his first wife Marion, who shared his ideals, he was doubly fortunate in the love and support of his second wife, Pam. Poetry was a medium by which this reserved man could express his inmost thoughts; as he did at the tragic death by drowning of his daughter, Julia.
Eric Wood's legacy will survive not only in his books, but also in the enthusiasm and commitment he generated among his colleagues.
Eric Stuart Wood: born November 1912; Secretary, Surrey Archaeological Society 1958- 66, President 1980-84; Chairman, Southwark (later Southwark and Lambeth) Excavation Committee 1967-81; publications include Collins Field Guide to Archaeology in Britain (1963), Historical Britain (1995); married 1935 Marion Bowie (died 1979, two daughters), 1980 Pamela Woolland; died May 1996.
Rosamond Hanworth is a past President of the Surrey Archaeological Society
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