CyberWire Daily: Episode Summary Title: Andrew Hammond: Understanding the Plot
Host/Author: N2K Networks
Release Date: March 23, 2025

Introduction to Dr. Andrew Hammond

In this episode of CyberWire Daily, the host engages with Dr. Andrew Hammond, the esteemed Historian and Curator at the International Spy Museum. Dr. Hammond delves into his personal and professional journey, shedding light on his transition from the Royal Air Force to the world of history and espionage.

From Military Service to Academia

Dr. Hammond begins by reflecting on his time in the Royal Air Force and the profound impact of the events of September 11, 2001. He recounts his experience during the tragic day:

Dr. Andrew Hammond (01:57): "I was in the dark room of a military intelligence section in Germany and I saw the South Tower be struck. And I guess we all knew that in one way or another, all of our lives would be changed then."

This pivotal moment ignited his passion to understand global dynamics, prompting his decision to leave the Air Force and pursue higher education in history and international relations. Dr. Hammond emphasizes the importance of studying history to anticipate future trends and extract wisdom from past events:

Dr. Hammond (02:45): "The only way to kind of try to anticipate where we may be going or to try to get any wisdom out of the whole journey is to look at what came before."

Academic Pursuits and Professional Development

Dr. Hammond outlines his academic path, which includes obtaining a master's degree and a Ph.D., followed by various postdoctoral fellowships. His time in New York City holds special significance, especially his proximity to Ground Zero:

Dr. Hammond (04:10): "It was quite moving because where my desk was directly overlooked Ground Zero. So occasionally I had to pinch myself a little bit just to think about how I'd ended up there."

His academic journey also took him to the Library of Congress, further solidifying his expertise in espionage and intelligence history. This extensive background paved the way for his current role at the International Spy Museum.

Role at the International Spy Museum

As Historian and Curator, Dr. Hammond's responsibilities are multifaceted:

1. Research and Collection Management: He manages a vast collection of approximately 9,000 artifacts related to intelligence and espionage. Dr. Hammond highlights the sensory experiences these artifacts provide:

   Dr. Hammond (06:20): "Sometimes the artifacts give off a particular smell, they sound a particular way. If you press the key on an Enigma machine makes a particular type of like, noise."

2. Podcast Production: Dr. Hammond is involved in producing the museum's podcast, SpyCast, which delves into various aspects of espionage history.

3. Storytelling Through Artifacts: He passionately discusses the synergy between history and curation, emphasizing how artifacts serve as portals to different worlds and times:

   Dr. Hammond (07:00): "If you have a bit of imagination and a bit of empathy and a bit of historical knowledge, you can use those artifacts to go back into a different place and time."

The Art of Storytelling in Espionage History

Dr. Hammond believes that the true essence of history lies in its stories. By connecting artifacts, he crafts narratives that span the vast landscapes of international relations, wars, and pivotal global events. He provides an example of how a single artifact can encapsulate a significant historical moment:

Dr. Hammond (07:50): "We have a depth analyzer that was used to basically crack Japanese naval code GN25. And that is one small part of the US victory at the Battle of Midway, one part of the war in the Pacific and America's role in the world."

This approach allows visitors and enthusiasts to engage deeply with history, understanding both the granular details and the broader historical canvas.

Innovative Curation Practices

Dr. Hammond discusses the evolving methods in museum curation, moving beyond static labels to dynamic storytelling. By stitching together narratives with interconnected artifacts, he creates immersive experiences that resonate with a diverse audience:

Dr. Hammond (08:30): "I think that now there's different approach. How do we stitch together narratives where we can, you know, almost sprinkle an artifact along and if you connect all of the artifacts, then you're hanging onto a particular story."

This method not only preserves the integrity of each artifact but also enhances the overall educational experience, making history accessible and engaging.

Conclusion

Dr. Andrew Hammond's insights offer a profound understanding of the intersection between history, curation, and storytelling within the realm of espionage. His dedication to preserving and interpreting artifacts ensures that the intricate tapestry of intelligence history remains vibrant and informative for future generations.

Notable Quotes:

• Dr. Hammond (01:57): "I was in the dark room of a military intelligence section in Germany and I saw the South Tower be struck. And I guess we all knew that in one way or another, all of our lives would be changed then."

• Dr. Hammond (02:45): "The only way to kind of try to anticipate where we may be going or to try to get any wisdom out of the whole journey is to look at what came before."

• Dr. Hammond (07:00): "If you have a bit of imagination and a bit of empathy and a bit of historical knowledge, you can use those artifacts to go back into a different place and time."

• Dr. Hammond (07:50): "We have a depth analyzer that was used to basically crack Japanese naval code GN25. And that is one small part of the US victory at the Battle of Midway, one part of the war in the Pacific and America's role in the world."

This summary encapsulates the key discussions and insights shared by Dr. Andrew Hammond in the episode, providing a comprehensive overview for those who haven't listened to the podcast.