Uninherited heritage: tradition and heritage production in Shetland, Åland and Svalbard

Abstract

Heritage implies inheritance, a community‐negotiated concept defying easy historical determinism. Utilising Ronström's distinction between tradition and heritage, this paper uses case studies from the islands of Shetland, Åland, and Svalbard to analyse how the uninherited nature of some heritage can influence its reception by the local community. These receptions vary and influence attempts to develop heritage under the world heritage ideal or for tourism, which is so vital to many island communities. Local governments and tourism professionals often interpret heritage objects differently than do local communities. Although heritage can be created without community consent, local support cannot be taken for granted. This paper argues that heritage‐promotion initiatives should take into account the special issues surrounding uninherited heritage.

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