Vernacular architecture of the Ahanta: Perspectives from Ethnoarchaeological and historical Investigations at Dixcove, Western Region, Ghana

Abstract

This paper investigated the consequences of the English presence at Dixcove (Effiema), specifically the impact of European architectural styles and imported European construction accoutrements on vernacular architecture from the precolonial era to 1874 when the Gold Coast officially became an English colony. Data for the study was derived from archaeological, historical and ethnographic investigations undertaken at the Daazikessie and Ntwarkro, the original quarters settled by progenitors of the current Dixcove population. Results of the study indicated that prior to the arrival of the English, the indigenes utilized only local building materials, notably flat top and bottom granitic stone blocks, bamboo poles, rammed earth and straight tree branches, all procured from the immediate precincts of the settlement to build their houses. However, significant changes occurred in local architectural styles during the era of the trans-Atlantic trade, primarily as a result of the introduction of novel European construction materials such as glass window panes, asbestos roofing slates, metal door locks and yellow bricks among many others. Other notable features adopted included multi-storied European architectural styles by wealthy indigenous merchants some of who benefitted immensely ,from the coastal trade there.