W. E. B. Du Bois Memorial Centre - Ghana

Step into the final home of the "Father of Pan-Africanism" at the W.E.B. Du Bois Memorial Centre for Pan-African Culture. Located in the serene residential area of Cantonments, Accra, this tranquil site serves as both a museum and a sacred shrine dedicated to the life and legacy of the great African-American scholar and civil rights pioneer. The Experience The Personal Residence: Walk through the modest, well-preserved bungalow where Du Bois lived after moving to Ghana in 1961. You can see his personal library containing over 1,000 volumes, his academic robes, and his original mahogany desk. The Mausoleum: Pay your respects at the circular, open-air tomb where both Dr. Du Bois and his wife, Shirley Graham Du Bois, are laid to rest. It is a site of deep reflection for those connecting with the global African struggle. Research & Artifacts: Explore a gallery of rare photographs documenting his meetings with world leaders and his work on the Encyclopedia Africana. The Serene Grounds: Stroll through the lush gardens featuring busts of iconic Pan-Africanists and a peaceful atmosphere that stands in stark contrast to the busy city outside. History & Significance A Presidential Invitation: Dr. Du Bois moved to Ghana at the age of 93 at the personal invitation of President Kwame Nkrumah to oversee the compilation of a definitive encyclopedia of the African diaspora. Renunciation & Identity: In a powerful final act of defiance against American racial injustice, Du Bois became a naturalized Ghanaian citizen and joined the Convention People's Party shortly before his death in 1963. Global Landmark: The center was officially dedicated as a National Historic Monument in 1985 to preserve his vision of a united Africa. National Museum of Ghana Key Facts The Passing of a Giant: Du Bois died on August 27, 1963—one day before the historic March on Washington, where his death was famously announced to the crowd by Roy Wilkins. The Guardian Opening Hours: Monday to Friday, 9:00 AM – 4:30 PM (Weekends by appointment or limited hours). Location: 1st Circular Road, Cantonments, Accra.