“If these walls could talk.” What stories would St James in Accra tell?
Let’s explore the area around St James. We will discover its historical roots and cultural significance. Accra’s oldest districts, Jamestown and Usshertown, began near here in the 17th century. They grew around the British James Fort and Dutch Ussher Fort. These forts were built on the Gulf of Guinea coast. By the end of the 19th century, this area was a mix of businesses and homes.
Today, Jamestown and Usshertown are still fishing communities. Most residents are Ga people. Although somewhat run-down, these districts hold vital history. Accra replaced Cape Coast as the Gold Coast capital in 1876.
Near St James stands the Jamestown Lighthouse. The original lighthouse was built at James Fort in 1871. A new tower replaced it in the 1930s. It stands 28 meters tall. The lighthouse is 34 meters above sea level. It can be seen from 16 nautical miles away. It overlooks the harbor, James Fort, Bukom, and Ussher Fort.
Since World War II, Accra has seen many development plans. Some plans included improvements for Jamestown. Others focused on developing Accra’s central business district. Current plans aim to re-develop Jamestown and Usshertown. This is known as “Ga-Mashie.” The 2015 Old Accra Strategy guides this effort. The Azonto dance became popular here in Jamestown. The local language “Ga” is spoken by residents.
Areas near St James include Bukom. Bukom is known for its boxing gyms. Adedainkpo was home to Accra’s wealthiest African residents. Other areas include Swalaba, Korle Woko, and Akoto Lante. Jamestown hosts the annual Chale Wote Street Art Festival.
Near St James stands James Fort. It was a slave-holding fort. In 1673, the Royal African Company of England built it. It traded gold and slaves. It joined the Dutch Fort Crèvecoeur and Danish Fort Christiansborg along the coast.
Fort James was named after the Duke of York. He later became King James II. He was the RAC’s Governor when it was built. The nearby town of Jamestown in Accra also shares his name. The fort stands next to Jamestown Lighthouse. It served as a prison until 2008. Ghana’s first president, Kwame Nkrumah, was imprisoned here with other criminals from 1950 to 1951. Today, it is a historic site for tourists.
St James stands amidst this rich history. It connects to stories of trade, culture, and resilience. As you explore, consider how this area has shaped Accra’s identity.