The Akosombo River is more commonly known as the Slave River since millions of Africans had their last bath before walking miles to slave dungeons along the Ghanaian coast. Currently, the Akosombo River is revered as a sacred space since thousands of Africans died in the river. People of African descent from the Americas, the Caribbean, and African countries travel to the Akosombo River each year to pay homage to their ancestors.
The enslavement process was brutal for captured Africans as they walked hundreds of miles towards the Ghanaian coast in heavy chains. Since the long journey was physically unsafe and many Africans rebelled against their enslavers, thousands of Africans died during the journey.
The exterior walls of the Akosombo River site depict the enslavement process:
Chained Africans riding in a boat towards slave castles Africans taking their "Last Bath" in Akosombo River.Africans entering the slave dungeons. Generally, Africans stayed in the dungeon for months before departing to the slave ships. Many Africans, called "Freedom Fighters", rebelled against European enslavers. Europeans auctioning Africans at the auction block.Europeans bargaining for Africans based on strength, skills, reproductive abilities, etc.Africans were chained in a fetal position whilst onboard the slave ship. This journey took approximately 3 months to complete. Africans were subjected to different torturous punishments, including metal masks that burned their skin, rape, castration, death, etc. European countries also branded Africans with a symbol to show that they were property. For example, France branded the Fleur-de-Lis on Africans within their territories.
Important facts to note:
Enslaved Africans were former prisoners-of-war and sold to the Europeans as slaves
Some Enslaved Africans were kidnapped from their homelands and sold to Europeans
Thousands of African's are buried along the banks of the Akosombo River and form large, grass-covered mounds
African descendants annually visit the river and perform rituals to pay homage to the deceased
Path to the Akosombo River site.Edge of the Akosombo River, where Africans would walk down the hill to take their Last Bath before continuing their journey.
Contact Info
Location
Merrick Hall
65 S. Sandusky St.
Delaware, OH 43015
