Emyr Estyn Evans and the cultural identity of Northern Ireland 1929-1969

Emphasis is placed on the contributions which Evans made to the development of the field of Geography and indeed his approach to the concept of cultural identity framed within the regional setting of a nine county province of Ulster. His insights of the many issues surrounding concepts of Irishness and regional identity can be seen throughout his published work. The interdisciplinary nature of his scholarly contributions are examined as he effortlessly weaves Geography, Anthropology, Archaeology and Folklife Studies, demonstrating their fundamental role in the development of his theories of regional cultural identity and its importance in the study of not only Geography, but also within the wider social sciences.

From this academic stand point, the practical impact of his work can be most clearly demonstrated in the establishment of the Ulster Folk Museum. This museum arguably provides the most enduring legacy of Evans, representative of his belief that education of common bonds and rural traditions were key to addressing the issues of division within Northern Ireland.<br>