Abstract:
Cultural conservation of tram and transportation heritage, particularly when considering intangible components, involves the difficult task of trying to balance theoretical and ideal preservation processes with practical operation and restoration requirements, to preserve important objects and sites without modifying the very thing that gave them their importance in the first place. This includes maintaining the integrity, form, and function of its original purpose (Theseus’ paradox); selection of physical fabric (materiality); acquisition and preparation of materials (Chaîne opératoire); as well as continuous improvement, innovation, and safety and operational improvements. Additionally, restoring things that have had more than one life raises the question of which life is going to be represented. Heritage preserved in transportation museums have additional logistical and practical considerations and operational requirements to consider. This research explores some of the issues present in cultural heritage conservation of tramway transportation using theoretical case studies.