“Arguing convincingly that historical legends are fundamental components of a selective, often self-congratulatory, ‘useable past,’ Attebery reminds us that these stories buttress inarguably contemporary heritage claims. An original contribution to a neglected, important topic.”—James P. Leary, University of Wisconsin–Madison
“A sophisticated and sharp-eyed take on the vexed and complicated presentation of heritage, story, and community in Swedish American local history writing. Illuminating the ongoing political importance of historical legends, Attebery deftly analyzes their patterns and omissions in a way that is profoundly needed in an America too often marked by the erasure of the experiences of its BIPOC citizens.”—Jeanne Banks Thomas, Utah State University
“Sophisticated. . . . It provides a rich methodology for working with local vernacular histories, it reveals the role of the folkloric in such histories, and it shows how a deep, critical engagement with these works can create insights that resonate to our present day.”—Journal of Folklore Research Reviews