Stephen AtkinsonAssistant State Archaeologist
Hailing from the University of West Florida, Stephen Atkinson began his career in maritime archaeology while excavating and conserving the artifacts from the Emanuel Point Two Shipwreck. While in Pensacola, FL, he also participated in locating, mapping, and excavating numerous other wrecks from the 16th to 20th centuries, from ships of discovery to the sidewheel steamers of the industrial age. He has worked on various terrestrial projects as well, from Roman forts in northern England to prehistoric caves and historic cemeteries in Florida and Alabama.
After serving as an archaeology intern at the Warren Lasch Conservation Center digitally recording the H.L. Hunley in 2016, Stephen’s career with OSA began at the Queen Anne’s Revenge Conservation Lab, where he served as a conservator. He then transferred to the Underwater Archaeology Branch in Kure Beach to become Assistant State Archaeologist in the fall of 2019.
Stephen is originally from Jensen Beach, Florida, and has a Bachelor's degree in History from Stetson University and a Master’s degree in Historical Archaeology with a maritime focus from the University of West Florida.