Julia Samson (Lazarus ’26, Head Girl)

POSTED March 24 2026

Scholar. Egyptologist. Trailblazer.

1909 – 2002

Long before she became one of Australia’s most respected Egyptologists, Julia Samson was a bright and engaging St Mary’s girl whose curiosity reached well beyond the classroom. Her path from Head Girl to internationally recognised archaeologist reflects a lifelong commitment to learning, discovery and the human stories that shape civilisation.

Julia attended St Mary’s from 1923 to 1926, where she excelled academically, earned several prizes and served as a Prefect and then Head Girl in her final year.

In 1928, Julia relocated to London, a move that helped her realise her lifelong dream of studying at the Institute of Archaeology at University College London, beginning a career that would position her at the forefront of Egyptological research.

Her fascination with ancient Egypt had begun much earlier, sparked during a family holiday and formalised when she joined the Egypt Exploration Society at just fifteen. She would remain a member for an extraordinary 77 years.

Julia became a distinguished Egyptologist, field archaeologist and author, contributing widely to the understanding of ancient Egyptian civilisation. She was an Honorary Researcher at the Petrie Museum in London, home to one of the world’s largest and most important collections of Egyptian and Sudanese archaeology.

Her sharp mind, generous spirit and ability to bring history vividly to life made her a treasured presence in academic and social circles alike.

‘Julia’s belief that the human intellect and imagination were the most creative forces in the world and central to all cultural progress was the core of her life and work, and of her extraordinary wide range of interests in the natural sciences and the arts. Her forceful yet humane character, her magnetic personality, her highly individual conversational powers, her radiant smile and warm capacity for human friendship were an inspiration to all her knew her.’ From The Journal of Egyptian Archaeology Vol.88, 2002

Julia’s contribution to her field, along with her remarkable presence and dedication, earned her a place on the St Mary’s Old Girls’ Honour Wall. Her life stands as a testament to the power of ambition and imagination, and the enduring impact of early inspiration.