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First Storey Building

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Historical site
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First Storey Building (Nigeria)

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The first storey building in Nigeria, located in Badagry, is a landmark monument marking the advent of Christian missions and early modern architecture in the country. Completed in 1845 by Reverend Henry Townsend of the Church Missionary Society (CMS), the structure was built using bricks and timber. The house is historically significant as the residence of Bishop Samuel Ajayi Crowther, the first African Anglican bishop, who translated the Holy Bible into the Yoruba language within its walls. Today, the building serves as a museum, preserving artifacts such as the original Yoruba Bible and various personal effects of the 19th-century missionaries. It stands as a symbol of the beginning of Western education and organized Christianity in Nigeria. Despite being over 175 years old, the building remains remarkably well-preserved and continues to attract thousands of local and international visitors every year interested in Nigeria's colonial and religious heritage.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Feb, Dec.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C262728282726252525262727
Rain mm2532711251892432051142452027125

📋 Practical info

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Visiting
Nigeria's oldest storey building is a historic landmark in Badagry. It can be visited as part of a guided tour.
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Typical hours
Opening hours are like a typical museum. They are usually open from morning until early evening.
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Photography
Photography is usually permitted inside the building. Flash should be avoided.
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Time needed
A visit takes about 30 minutes. The tour covers the colonial past and construction method.
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Combine with
Combine the visit with other historical sites in Badagry, such as the Slave Museum. A walk through the old town is also worthwhile.
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Getting there
The building is centrally located in Badagry, reachable on foot or by taxi. The journey from Lagos takes about an hour.
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Insider tip
Ask for a guide to explain the history. Wear comfortable shoes for the walk.

Geography

Coordinates
6.41920, 2.88080

Facts

  • The building was completed in 1845 by Rev. Henry Townsend.
  • It served as the first headquarters for CMS missionaries in Nigeria.
  • Bishop Samuel Ajayi Crowther stayed here for several years.
  • The original Yoruba Bible printed in 1845 is kept inside.
  • The structure includes the first post office established in Nigeria.
  • The building features a unique 19th-century architectural design.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Badagry Slave PortBadagry Slave Port<1 km · SWExplore →
Ethnographic Museum of Porto-NovoEthnographic Museum of Porto-Novo29 km · SExplore →
Musée HonmèMusée Honmè29 km · SExplore →
Porto-Novo LagoonPorto-Novo Lagoon29 km · SExplore →
Songhai CenterSonghai Center30 km · SExplore →
Sèmè-Kpodji Industrial AreaSèmè-Kpodji Industrial Area34 km · SExplore →
Ouémé RiverOuémé River45 km · SExplore →
Cotonou Petroleum TerminalCotonou Petroleum Terminal47 km · SExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):

© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService

Sights in the town First Storey Building (3)

Former Slave Market🏛 museum

Former slave market, now a museum commemorating the slave trade.

Wawu Palace🏰 castle

Historic palace in Badagry, seat of traditional rulers.

Mobee Royal Palace🏰 castle

Royal palace in Badagry, residence of the Mobee dynasty.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

When was the building constructed?
It dates from the mid-19th century.
Is it a museum?
Yes, it serves as a historical museum.
What is the entrance like?
A small fee is payable for maintenance.
Is photography allowed inside the building?
Ask on site, it is often allowed.
Is the building accessible?
Due to its age, it is unfortunately not accessible.
First Storey Building: where is it located?
First Storey Building is located in Nigeria.
First Storey Building: what is there to see?
Highlights include Former Slave Market, Wawu Palace, Mobee Royal Palace.
First Storey Building: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Feb, Dec.
First Storey Building: why is it worth visiting?
The first storey building in Nigeria, located in Badagry, is a landmark monument marking the advent of Christian missions and early modern architecture in the country.
View on map → The Top 50 Attractions → OpenStreetMap →
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