Paul Laurence Dunbar House, Dayton

About Paul Laurence Dunbar House

Tour the restored home of poet Paul Laurence Dunbar (1872–1906), one of America's greatest writers and a powerful voice for equality for African Americans. The house has been returned to its appearance when Dunbar and his mother, Matilda, lived there from 1904 to 1906. Inside, visitors see Dunbar's literary treasures, personal items, and family furnishings displayed throughout the turn-of-the-century home. Specific exhibits include Dunbar's bicycle, likely from the Wright Brothers' shop; the desk and chair where he composed much of his work; and his collection of Native American art. An on-site visitor center features panels telling the story of Dunbar's life and achievements. In 1936, the Ohio General Assembly dedicated the house as a memorial to Dunbar—the first state memorial in Ohio to honor African American history. The site is part of the Dayton Aviation Heritage National Historical Park in Dayton.