My new hero:

Archaeology is no stranger to unusual personalities. ‘Indiana Jones’ of the movie Raiders of the Lost Ark has a real life counterpart in Vendyl Jones, a self-trained adventurer in search of the Ark of the Covenant. Sir William Flinders Petrie discovered that pottery types could be dated according to the layers in tells (mounds) where they are found. He also was the first European to measure the pyramids. An old man with a full white beard and blazing blue eyes, he did his work wearing a ballerina’s frilly tutu, thus sparing himself from stoning by local religious fanatics.

– Clarke Johnson DDS, PhD, “Introduction to Anthropology”

Now, I’m sure you want to know the story behind the ballerina’s tutu. Up until the 19th century there had been no accurate survey made of the Great Pyramids. The main reason for this was the danger involved. The pyramids had been ransacked so badly the locals would often beat or even kill anyone believed to be a grave robber. There was a peculiar caveat to this custom, though. Anyone violating local customs and laws [who was] deemed insane was to be left alone, as long as no one was being harmed. Therefore, Petrie actually wore a ballerina’s tutu while surveying so he would appear insane! Some accounts say he openly wore pink frilly underwear while working. There are also several accounts of Petrie working naked inside the pyramids to prevent any annoyances from curious tourists. Petrie was at his best when he was challenged with unique problems that required innovative solutions. This, I have found, is the core quality of most surveyors who are true to their calling.

– Barry Savage, PLS, “Web Exclusive! The Man Behind the Tutu”