Last updated: 11/15/2011
219 N. Paul Laurence Dunbar Street
Dayton, OH 45402
c/o Dayton History
1000 Carillon Boulevard
Dayton, OH 45409
Friday - Saturday
10 AM - 4 PM
Other days by appointment.
Adults - $6.00
Children (ages 3-17) - $3.00
Children (ages 5 and under) - FREE
Military and Senior discount honoroed
Ohio Historical Society/Dayton History members - FREE
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Alex Heckman
phone: 937-293-2841
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This Italianate turn-of-the-century structure was the final home of the poet Paul Laurence Dunbar. It exhibits his literary treasures, many of his personal items and his family's furnishings. During his short lifetime Dunbar became known as the poet laureate of African Americans. Drawing on his observations of society and the experience of his parents--both former slaves--he gave voice to the social dilemma of disenfranchised people of his day and became a proclaimer of black dignity.
Born in 1872, Dunbar was ill for most of his life. He died of tuberculosis in 1906. His mother, Matilda, lived on in the house and kept vigil over Paul's belongings until her death in 1934. On 23 July 1936, the Dunbar House became the first state memorial to honor an African American.
In 2002-2003 the site began a capital improvement project. Today, the Dunbar has been completely renovated and restored to furnishings and wallpapers common, and some instances exactly, of the time period when Paul and Matilda lived in the house. A new visitor center was also constructed on site, containing interpretive panels chronicling Dunbar's life.
Dayton History is Montgomery County’s official historical organization. Consisting of Carillon Historical Park, the Archive Center, Kettering-Moraine Museum, Hawthorn Hill and Patterson Homestead, Dayton History brings the past to life to understand the present and inspire the future by collecting, preserving, interpreting, presenting and promoting the region’s past.
Dayton History offers many exciting opportunities for volunteers, depending on your interests. Whatever your interest, whatever your passion, whatever your talent…Dayton History will provide the training necessary for volunteering. No experience is required!
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