Nick Merriman emphasizes the need to include stories of slavery and colonialism in mainstream historical narratives.
In a groundbreaking move, the incoming head of English Heritage, Nick Merriman, has called for a fundamental shift in the way museums and heritage organizations present their collections. Merriman asserts that stories of slavery and colonialism must be central to the narrative of British history, going beyond the confines of historic properties, statues, or artifacts directly linked to these controversial legacies. As he prepares to take up his post, Merriman’s vision for a more inclusive and nuanced approach to heritage has the potential to reshape the way we understand and engage with the past.
Expanding the Narrative:
Merriman firmly believes that the focus on Britain’s colonial role should be an integral part of mainstream historical narratives. He argues that it is not a matter of political correctness or rewriting history but rather a commitment to presenting a more accurate and comprehensive account of the nation’s past. By including the complex and difficult stories of slavery and empire, museums and heritage organizations can offer a richer understanding of British history.
The Role of Heritage Organizations:
English Heritage, as the custodian of over 400 historic monuments, including iconic sites like Stonehenge and Tintagel Castle, plays a crucial role in shaping the nation’s heritage. Merriman’s appointment as the chief executive of this prestigious organization signifies a shift towards a more inclusive and diverse approach. His comments reflect a growing awareness within the heritage sector of the need to confront and address the problematic aspects of the past.
Decolonizing Museum Collections:
The discussions surrounding the decolonization of museum collections have been ongoing within the heritage sector for some time. However, recent controversies surrounding the National Trust’s research into its properties’ links to slavery have brought this issue to the forefront. Merriman’s comments serve as a clear statement of intent, signaling a commitment to reevaluating the narratives presented by heritage organizations and ensuring a more balanced and truthful representation of history.
Acknowledging the Violent Past:
Merriman highlights the need to critically examine the objects within museum collections and consider the violence and exploitation that may have been involved in their creation. He argues that beautiful artifacts, such as tea caddies and snuff boxes, owned by wealthy individuals in the past, have often been admired without a full understanding of the human suffering that underpinned their production. By acknowledging this violent past, heritage organizations can provide a more nuanced and ethical interpretation of their collections.
Restitution and Contested Heritage:
Under Merriman’s leadership, the Horniman Museum returned its 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, acknowledging the history of slavery and colonialism that permeates many UK collections. He reassures critics that restitution will not lead to the wholesale emptying of collections but rather target the most egregious examples of looting or inappropriate acquisition.
Conclusion:
Nick Merriman’s appointment as the head of English Heritage marks a significant turning point in the way museums and heritage organizations approach the presentation of their collections. By advocating for a more inclusive and comprehensive narrative that encompasses the stories of slavery and colonialism, Merriman aims to create a new chapter in heritage that reflects the complexities of British history. As the sector grapples with the challenges of decolonization, restitution, and contested heritage, Merriman’s vision offers a way forward that encourages critical engagement with the past while fostering a more inclusive and diverse understanding of our shared heritage.
Leave a Reply