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Dunbar House Added to Dayton History Family of Museums

Dayton History is pleased to announce an exciting partnership with the Ohio Historical Society (OHS) to operate the Paul Laurence Dunbar House.

Who was Paul Laurence Dunbar? Born to former slaves in 1872, Dunbar was the first African American poet to earn international acclaim. In his short life of 33 years, he published over 400 poems, six full-length novels, plays, short stories and lyrics for musical productions. His body of published work reveals the daunting challenges facing African Americans in the post-Civil War era and protests the widespread atrocities committed against them.

Dunbar became a major inspiration for Harlem Renaissance authors like Langston Hughes and Zora Neale Hurston. His influence continues today through the writings of famous African American writers like Maya Angelou and Toni Morrison, both of whom credit Dunbar as an inspiration.

The museum will be open for pre-arranged tours each week on Thursday, Friday and Saturday at 11:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m., with other times available by advance arrangement. Call 937-313-2010 for your reservation. Although admission fees of $6.00 per adult and $3.00 per child are in place, Dayton History and OHS members will be admitted free of charge. We hope to see you soon at the Paul Laurence Dunbar House!