Rethinking Heritage: English Heritage Chief Calls for Inclusion of Slavery and Colonialism in Museum Narratives

Nick Merriman, the incoming head of English Heritage, emphasizes the importance of incorporating the legacy of slavery and colonialism into the mainstream narrative of British history.

In a bold move to reshape the way museums and heritage organizations present their collections, Nick Merriman, the incoming head of English Heritage, has called for a comprehensive inclusion of the legacy of slavery and colonialism. Merriman emphasizes that these often problematic aspects of British history should be an integral part of the mainstream narrative, going beyond direct links to slavery or imperial wealth. This shift, he argues, is not about political correctness or rewriting history but about presenting a more nuanced and complex understanding of the past.

Expanding the Mainstream Narrative:

Merriman, currently the chief executive of the Horniman Museum in south London, believes that the stories of slavery and empire must be brought to the forefront of public historical narratives. He argues that this expansion of narratives should not be limited to historic properties, statues, or artifacts directly linked to slavery or imperial wealth. Instead, it should be a fundamental part of how British history is presented to the public. By incorporating these difficult stories, Merriman asserts that museums and heritage organizations can offer a more accurate and comprehensive understanding of the nation’s past.

A Clear Statement of Intent:

Merriman’s comments come at a time when discussions about decolonizing museum collections have gained momentum in the heritage sector. Recent controversies surrounding the National Trust’s research into its properties’ links to slavery have further highlighted the need for a more inclusive approach to heritage. Merriman’s appointment as the head of English Heritage signals a clear statement of intent to address these issues head-on and reshape the way heritage is presented in the country.

Acknowledging the Violent History:

Merriman emphasizes the need to critically examine the objects in museum collections and consider the violence that often accompanied their creation. He highlights the uncritical admiration of beautiful artifacts owned by wealthy individuals in the past, without acknowledging the violence and suffering that enabled their acquisition. By offering wider narratives that include the colonial imperial networks behind these objects, Merriman aims to provide a more honest and complete understanding of their history.

Restitution and Contextualization:

Under Merriman’s leadership, the Horniman Museum formally returned a collection of 72 Benin City artifacts, looted by British forces in 1897, to Nigerian ownership. Merriman sees such restitution as an inevitable part of heritage practice that acknowledges the history of slavery and colonialism. He believes that restitution should not be feared, as it is likely to only address the most egregious examples of looting or inappropriate acquisition. When it comes to controversial statues, Merriman advocates for retaining contested heritage but placing it within a broader context to encourage a more nuanced understanding of the past.

Conclusion:

Nick Merriman’s vision for English Heritage and the wider museum sector is one that embraces the difficult and complex stories of slavery and colonialism. By expanding the mainstream narrative of British history, museums and heritage organizations can offer a more accurate and inclusive representation of the nation’s past. Merriman’s call for the return of looted artifacts and the contextualization of controversial heritage demonstrates a commitment to addressing historical injustices and fostering a deeper understanding of the legacy of slavery and colonialism. As he takes up his post in the new year, Merriman’s leadership promises to usher in a new chapter of heritage that is more reflective, inclusive, and thought-provoking.


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