Hidden from public view in the Ebute-Metta axis of Lagos, within the Nigerian Railway Corporation compound, lies a remarkable train mini-museum known as Jaekel House.
This historical site located on Quarter 17, offers a glimpse into Nigeria’s railway history, showcasing artifacts and mementos that tell the story of the nation’s rail transport evolution.
As you approach Jaekel House, you are greeted by the sight of a colonial Afro-Brazilian-style two-storey building, over 100 years old, surrounded by a vast expanse of lush greenery.
The compound offers a rich visual experience of a vintage bicycle, once used to send messages between railway stations. Also,a rail car, a water column, a buffer stop, and rail tracks, all preserved as part of the museum’s historical collection.
Due to its calm, serene garden spaces, Jaekel House is slowly growing in popularity as a venue for picnics, weddings, and pre-wedding photoshoots.
On the left side of the building lies Jaekel’s Secret Garden, adorned with flowers, trees, and a cozy bench for visitors to relax and enjoy the serene breeze. To the right, a charming floral archway leads to the backyard, providing a scenic pathway that enhances the museum’s tranquil atmosphere.
History of Jaekel House
Before becoming a museum in 2010, Jaekel House served various purposes. Built around 1898, it initially housed the General Manager of the Nigerian Railway Corporation and later became a rest house for senior staff.
In 1998, the building was renamed in honour of the late Francis Jaekel, a former superintendent of the Nigerian Railway Corporation. Appointed to the colonial service in 1938, Jaekel held seventeen officer positions over 27 years, eventually retiring in the 1970s.
His nearly three decades of service were instrumental to the corporation, and the renaming of the house was a tribute to his legacy.
After years of neglect, the building was on the brink of collapse when it was restored in 2010 by the Legacy Group, a non-governmental organization dedicated to preserving Nigeria’s historical sites.
According to the Vice President of the Legacy Group, Ikem Okolie, the museum’s story began in 1996 when the group’s founder visited the site and collaborated with the railway authority to renovate the structure, transforming it into a repository of railway history.
Architectural Marvel
Jaekel House is a stunning example of Afro-Brazilian architecture, a style brought to Lagos by freed slaves returning from Brazil.
The building boasts intricate stucco designs, arched windows, and ornate wooden balconies. Its symmetry, high ceilings, and spacious verandas blend Afro-Brazilian influences with traditional African craftsmanship.
Inside, the house features handcrafted wooden staircases, vintage glass doors, and wooden tile flooring, all carefully preserved by the Legacy Group. These details highlight the artistry and durability of its original construction, making the house a timeless architectural masterpiece.
Cultural and Social Impact
Jaekel House is more than a museum; it is a cultural landmark with a rich history. Over the years, it has become a symbol of resilience, surviving urbanisation and changing ownership while retaining its historic charm.
The house has also played a significant role in Nigerian pop culture. It served as a filming location for the movie October 1 and the 2019 biopic The Herbert Macaulay Affair. It was also featured in a music video by Nigerian artist Simi.
Visitor Information
Jaekel House Museum is open to visitors from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Tuesdays to Saturdays. A gate fee of N1,500 grants access to a tour of the museum and permission to take photographs within the outdoor spaces. However, indoor photography and videography are strictly prohibited.
The fees for hosting events or shoots are negotiable and reasonably priced, making it a sought-after spot for creating lasting memories.
Jaekel House stands as a testament to Nigeria’s railway heritage, offering visitors a unique blend of history, architecture, and culture. Its restoration and preservation serve as a reminder of the importance of protecting historical landmarks.
Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a lover of architecture, or simply seeking a serene space for reflection, Jaekel House promises a memorable experience steeped in the rich heritage of Lagos.