Jesse D. Jennings Sr., 88, internationally known archaeologist and anthropologist and former professor and chairman of the University of Utah department of anthropology, died Wednesday, Aug. 13, 1997, at his home in Siletz, Ore.
Mr. Jennings taught for 38 years at the U., where he was awarded a distinguished professorship and founded the Utah Museum of Natural History.He joined the U. as an associate professor in 1948 after working with the National Park Service. He received many honors at the university, including the Reynolds and Leigh Lectureship. In 1980 he was awarded a doctorate of science degree.
He established the Utah Statewide Archaeological Survey and directed the Glen Canyon Archaeological Survey Project. Mr. Jennings excavated the well-known Danger Cave near Wendover, which is widely believed to have documented the presence of humans in this part of the world at the end of the ice age.
In 1958, Mr. Jennings was presented the Viking Medal in Archaeology. He was chosen for the Fulbright-Hayes Lectureship at the University of Auckland, New Zealand, in 1979. Earlier, he was elected to the National Academy of Sciences.
The Society of American Archaeology honored him in 1982 with a Distinguished Service Award. Two years ago, he was presented the Alfred Vincent Kidder Award for 50 years of contributions in the field of archaeology. Mr. Jennings was the author of more than 100 published articles, monographs and other materials.
"One of Dr. Jennings' great strengths, in addition to total dedication to stringent excavation procedures, was support for his students. He was always available to discuss ideas, sites and research," said Duncan Metcalfe, a former student of Mr. Jennings and curator of archaeology at the Utah Museum of Natural History.
A memorial service will be held at a later date, according to a son, David Jennings of Salt Lake City.