An ahima (dugout canoe) built in Prampram, Ghana.

Introduction

This exhibit features a dugout canoe, or ahima, built in Ghana in 2004-2005 as part of a project led by Fulbright scholar Ralph G. Brown, who has helped construct boats around the world. The photos, artifacts, and the canoe itself are on display to remind us of connections between the past and present, between forest and sea, and Africa and the western hemisphere. This ahima represents a building tradition that extends at least into the eighteenth century and was used in coastal fishing and transport. Ghana was also the embarkation point for countless enslaved individuals who traveled to the western hemisphere, taking their culture and maritime traditions with them. Though centuries have passed, they would have recognized this vessel. Although under far different circumstances, this ahima has made the journey west as well. It is a reminder that some cultural traditions persist and in doing so can educate us about the past.

The students who constructed this exhibit have spent the fall 2019 semester studying maritime culture and how best to share it with the world. In this exhibit they provide the background context, information about this ahima in particular, and the ways they are conducting public outreach in order to share their own journey with you.


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