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W. E. B. Du Bois Centre
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Historical site
The W.E.B. Du Bois Centre in Accra is a prominent research institution and memorial dedicated to the life and work of the famous American civil rights activist and Pan-Africanist William Edward Burghardt Du Bois. The centre is housed in the very residence where Du Bois spent his final years at the invitation of President Kwame Nkrumah and where he passed away in 1963. It contains his extensive personal library, numerous manuscripts, and personal artifacts documenting his lifelong struggle for equality and African unity. Also located on the grounds is the tomb of Du Bois and his wife, Shirley Graham Du Bois, making the site a place of pilgrimage for scholars and activists worldwide. The architecture of the centre preserves the charm of a mid-20th-century Ghanaian residence, tucked away within serene gardens. As a spirited research hub, the institute regularly organizes lectures, exhibitions, and cultural events that foster dialogue about the African diaspora and the continent's future. It stands as a symbol of the profound connection between African-American freedom movements and Ghana's own aspirations for independence.
- Location: Ghana
- Nearby: Teshie (8 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Aug, Dec.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 27 | 28 | 28 | 28 | 27 | 26 | 25 | 24 | 25 | 26 | 27 | 27 |
| Rain mm | 22 | 44 | 104 | 134 | 196 | 197 | 91 | 40 | 102 | 149 | 64 | 25 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
The W. E. B. Du Bois Centre in Accra is a museum and cultural centre open to the public. Visitors can explore the former residence and burial site of the civil rights leader.
Typical hours
The centre is usually open Monday to Saturday, often from 9:00 to 17:00. It's advisable to call ahead as hours can vary.
Photography
Photography is allowed in most areas. Flash may be prohibited in the exhibition hall - ask staff.
Time needed
Allocate about one hour for the museum and garden. Those interested should plan two hours to read the exhibits thoroughly.
Combine with
Combine the visit with the nearby Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park and the National Museum of Ghana. The Makola markets are also worth a visit.
Getting there
The centre is located in the Cantonments district of Accra, easily reached by taxi. Public buses stop nearby on Ring Road.
Insider tip
Visit the centre on a weekday to avoid crowds. Bring cash as the museum often does not accept cards.
Geography
Facts
- W.E.B. Du Bois moved to Ghana in 1961 following an invitation from Nkrumah.
- He passed away on August 27, 1963, at the age of 95 in this house.
- The centre's library holds over 1,000 volumes from his personal collection.
- The residence was officially converted into a research centre in 1985.
- Du Bois and his wife are interred in a circular mausoleum on the grounds.
- The centre continues his work on the comprehensive 'Encyclopedia Africana'.
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Sights in the town W. E. B. Du Bois Centre (1)
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Frequently asked questions
What are the opening hours of the W. E. B. Du Bois Centre?
The centre is typically open to visitors from Monday to Friday, between 09:00 AM and 04:30 PM.
Is there an entrance fee for the centre?
Yes, a small fee is charged, which contributes to the maintenance of the museum and research library.
Can I visit the grave of Du Bois?
Yes, the mausoleum on the grounds houses the remains of W. E. B. Du Bois and his wife.
Is photography allowed inside the museum?
Photography is allowed outdoors, but inside the museum, a special permit or fee is often required.
How much time should I plan for the visit?
You should plan about 1 to 1.5 hours to visit the house, mausoleum, and gallery.
W. E. B. Du Bois Centre: where is it located?
W. E. B. Du Bois Centre is located in Ghana.
W. E. B. Du Bois Centre: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Aug, Dec.
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