Michael Arthur Glassow

Michael “Mike” Glassow, a pioneering and transformative archaeologist, succumbed at age 85 to bladder cancer. A leading figure in California archaeology, he was a passionate advocate for Cultural Resource Management (CRM) and heritage conservation.

Inspired as a student by books discovered in his Grand Rapids High School library, Mike pursued archaeology from the American Southwest to California. He earned his BA, MA, and PhD at UCLA and later contributed his body to the UCLA Donated Body Program to support medical education.

Hired by the UCSB Anthropology Department in 1969, Mike served as department chair (2002–2005) and remained deeply engaged in campus service and the UC Natural Reserve System, particularly Santa Cruz Island. His research and teaching focused on California archaeology and the Channel Islands, and mentoring students was the most rewarding aspect of his career. Over four decades at UCSB, he guided numerous MA and PhD students, published more than 150 works, and continued mentoring as emeritus after retiring in 2009.

Beyond academia, Mike served for over three decades as Archaeological Advisor to the City of Santa Barbara Landmarks Commission and was closely involved with the Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History. His work helped shape Cultural Resource Management policy and practice statewide as well as with professional societies, beginning with the landmark Vandenberg CRM project in 1974—a pivotal moment for the CRM industry..

An avid photographer, his unique perspective was shared in his research as well as his travels. Thoughtful and generous, Mike enjoyed collecting and repairing old clocks and crafting home improvement. His practical ingenuity and creativity resolved problems in houses and the field.

Mike is survived by his archaeological partner of over fifty years, Anabel Ford; his brother Jonathan Glassow and family; and his niece, Laura Glassow. No memorial will be held; a celebration of life is planned for May.