The Heritage Obsession

Ben Cowell traces the rise of heritage consciousness over the last 300 years, from its origins in the writings of the seventeenth- and eighteenth-century antiquarians to the founding of the first heritage organizations in the nineteenth century and on to the present day. Our passion for heritage has never been greater, as demonstrated by the popularity of historic visitor attractions and the ever-growing membership of organisations such as the National Trust. The urge to preserve and protect what previous generations have left behind, however, has not always been with us. It has developed over time, as a result of the efforts of countless campaigners and enthusiasts, obsessive in their battles to save the past. In this book Ben Cowell traces the rise of heritage consciousness in England over the last 300 years, from its origins in the writings of the seventeenth- and eighteenth-century antiquaries to the founding of the first preservationist organizations in the nineteenth century and on to the present day. It covers a wide range of subject areas, from the rise of the museum to the politics of twentieth-century urban development, with a view to addressing the central questions of why do we protect the past?' and 'how is this best done?' This is an accessible and fascinating study of why heritage is such an important element of our national culture, and how its presence in the landscape can best be protected. It is a unique and important book, with a wide appeal - from general readers, through to students on heritage management courses, to members of conservationist bodies and policy-makers at all levels.