@historicallagos: Captured sometime between 1930 and 1972 on Odunfa Street. In the foreground stands the Nigerian branch of Arnold Schlesinger, a German trading house based in Hamburg, reflecting the strong international trading links that connected colonial Lagos to Europe and the wider world. Dominating the background is the famous Ebun House at 85 Odunfa Street, one of the most remarkable Afro-Brazilian architectural landmarks of its era. Built in 1913 and reportedly supervised by Herbert Macaulay, the celebrated nationalist, engineer, and one of the founding figures of modern Nigerian politics, the impressive three-storey structure contained over 40 rooms. The building belonged to Andrew W. U. Thomas, father of the renowned politician Bode Thomas, whose name remains immortalized in Lagos through Bode Thomas Street. Ebun House stood as a testament to the wealth, influence, and architectural sophistication of Lagos’ Afro-Brazilian community, whose return from Brazil in the 19th century left an enduring mark on the city’s culture and built environment. Sadly, this historic edifice was destroyed by a devastating fire outbreak in the 1980s, taking with it a significant piece of Lagos’ architectural heritage. Looking at this photograph today, one cannot help but wonder how many stories, businesses, families, and historic conversations once passed through these buildings and along the bustling streets of Odunfa. Do you remember Ebun House, or have you heard family stories about this part of Lagos Island? #HistoricLagos #LagosIsland #EbunHouse #AfroBrazilianArchitecture #LagosHistory

Historical Lagos

Open In TikTok:

Region: NG

Wednesday 10 June 2026 17:11:43 GMT