Sankofa: Objects from Africa

Sankofa: Objects from Africa is part of the programme at Dumfries Museum, the council museum telling the story of the land and people of Dumfries and Galloway.

Sankofa is an Adinkra symbol meaning 'go back and get it'. The exhibition looks back at how objects from Africa came to Dumfries Museum: who collected them, when and why, and what they suggest about colonial history and its legacies.

What to expect:

• On show from 1 October 2026 to 1 April 2027 at Dumfries Museum
• Ceremonial paddles from Nigeria, an Ashante headrest and lots of beadwork
• Objects made from animal skin, including a Yoruba cow hide fan and a Zulu shield used in the wedding dance
• A film about Dr William Fergusson, of African origin, who split his life between Dumfries and Sierra Leone until his death in 1845
• Admission to Dumfries Museum is free; open Monday to Saturday 10-5, Sundays 2-5
• Activity trails for families, a lift to the first floor and a wheelchair to borrow