Mary Slessor's House
South South Nigeria Region
Mary Slessor's House is a museum dedicated to the life and legacy of Mary Mitchell Slessor, a Scottish Presbyterian missionary renowned for her work in Nigeria during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Located in the South South Nigeria Region, the museum honors her efforts to spread Christianity and promote social reforms among the Efik people. Slessor is most celebrated for her courageous campaign against the local practice of infanticide of twins, rescuing many children who were abandoned or at risk. The house reflects her deep connection to the local culture, as she mastered the Efik language to gain trust and effectively communicate. Visitors can learn about her challenging early life in Scotland, her missionary journeys, and her impact on Nigerian communities. The museum also highlights her advocacy for women's rights and her role in ending harmful traditional practices. Mary Slessor's House stands as a symbol of cross-cultural understanding and humanitarian dedication, inspiring visitors with her remarkable story of compassion and resilience.
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Tip: The best time to visit Mary Slessor's House is during the dry season for comfortable weather. Booking guided tours in advance is recommended to gain deeper insights into her life and work. Visitors should inquire about available discounts for students or groups. The museum is accessible by local transport, and taking time to explore the surrounding area enriches the experience.
Interesting facts
- •Mary Slessor was instrumental in stopping the infanticide of twins, a common practice in parts of Nigeria at the time.
- •She learned the Efik language fluently, which helped her gain the trust of local communities.
- •Slessor lived and worked in Nigeria despite repeated bouts of malaria and other health challenges.
- •She allocated much of her salary to support her family back in Scotland while living economically on local food.
- •Her missionary work extended beyond Calabar to other tribes, spreading Christianity and promoting social reforms.
History
Mary Slessor was born in 1848 in Aberdeen, Scotland, and began her missionary work in Nigeria in 1876 after training in Edinburgh.
Initially assigned to the Calabar region, she learned the local Efik language and immersed herself in the culture.
Over the years, she confronted and helped abolish practices such as twin infanticide and human sacrifice.
Her efforts earned her the trust of local communities and lasting influence.
Slessor passed away in 1915, but her legacy continues through the museum established in her honor in Nigeria.
Place Guide
Main Exhibition Room
Features artifacts, photographs, and documents detailing Mary Slessor's life, missionary work, and impact on Nigerian society.
Cultural Interaction Exhibit
Showcases the Efik culture and how Slessor integrated and respected local traditions while promoting change.
Twin Infanticide Awareness Section
Dedicated to educating visitors about the historical practice of twin infanticide and Slessor's role in its abolition.
Contact
Phone: 0818 2020 2220
