Imagery and imaginary of islander identity: Older people and migration in Irish small-island communities

► An historical islander identity was formed through shared hardships. ► Current islander identities are based on cohesion, safety, and traditional values. ► Older people were actively engaged in the (re)production of islander identity. ► There is a hierarchy in claims to islander status related to migration histories. ► Local knowledge and traditional skills are powerful signifiers of islander identity.