Catherine Downes

Catherine Downes was an English antiquarian and archaeologist who made significant contributions to the field of archaeology in the late 18th century. In 1786, she excavated a Roman villa near Warminster, Wiltshire, making her one of the first women antiquarians to undertake such work. Downes gained permission to excavate the site, known as Pit Mead, after learning about it through an article in the Salisbury Journal. Her findings included four mosaics, a bath house, and various artifacts like pottery, coins, bone, and metal objects. Downes also actively contributed to the work of the Society of Antiquaries of London, making her one of the earliest recorded women to do so. Her discovery of a Roman villa and her contributions to archaeology are notable accomplishments in her field.