Anthony O’Connor

Hi, I’m Anthony O’Connor and I am one of the two Museum, Heritage & Culture specialists in the team. I have worked at the Epping Forest District Museum for 20 years. Before that I worked for 19 years in other museums and as an archaeologist working on excavations in the UK and abroad.

Our role is to be an expert for all matters relating to Museum, Culture and Heritage, contribute to the direction for the work of the service and provide technical and professional advice and support, with a specific focus on service sustainability, fundraising, project management and digital development. I also advise and contribute on service development reflecting national, regional and local agendas. To lead on exhibition concept and development, planning and content, collections access and development. You’ve got to be responsible for identifying and securing external funding; producing and coordinating major funding applications to ensure the long-term sustainability of the service

My time at the museum has involved some major step change projects for the service and my own role has changed and developed over time as well. When working at the museum our roles within our department are very varied and we are always learning new skills introducing new ways of working to provide a great public service.

Overall It has been a fantastic experience to work with a knowledgeable, supportive and creative team to develop the service, share and make accessible the wonderful heritage, collections and stories that we hold in the district. As a result, I would very much recommend it.

Archaeology and history are in my blood and so in my spare time I spend a lot of time catching up on new research. Therefore, I love to travel and discover new places. This also means, I am a bit of a foodie and so like to check out new restaurants and recipes to try.

My qualifications consist of:

• a BA Hons in Ancient History and Archaeology; the course took 3 years.
• I am also a Fellow of the Society of Antiquaries of London (FSA) based on the work I have undertaken over the years

My favourite item at the museum is the silver penny of King Harold Godwinson, a reminder of Waltham Abbey’s links to the king who died at the battle of Hastings in 1066 and who was later buried at the church.