Overview:

, is a heritage site located in Calabar, Cross Rivers State in Nigeria. It was built in 1884 as the official residence of the British governor of the then Oil Rivers Protectorate. The Old Residency was modelled after an English manor house and has a lawn of grass and trees surrounding the building as well as a lower hill guarded by a palisade fence and stone wall. It was declared a national monument in 1950 and is now a museum. It is used to house memorabilia pertaining to the history of Cross River State from pre-colonial to contemporary times. It also serves as an educational resource for visitors to learn about the past and present of the region. It is one of the most beautiful monuments in Nigeria
Prominent Features:

1. Iconic architecture: The Old Residency in Calabar is a grand example of colonial-era architecture. It features white walls and a red roof, as well as large columns and windowed balconies. 2. Historical significance: The Old Residency served as the center of British colonial administration in Nigeria, hosting such prominent figures as Queen Victoria, Sir Frederick Lugard, and other important politicians and diplomats throughout its history. 3. Interesting exhibits: The Old Residency houses a fascinating collection of artifacts related to the history of Nigeria, including photographs, manuscripts, arts and crafts, and other memorabilia. 4. Conference facilities: The Residency's spacious grounds and modern conference facilities make it an ideal venue for business events, conferences, and other special occasions. 5. Unique location: Set in the bustling Calabar port city, the Old Residency is conveniently located near the nearby beaches and park, and provides easy access to various public transportation services. You can learn history, culture, and heritage through these magnificent monuments in Nigeria.

History:

The Old Residency in Calabar, Cross Rivers State in Nigeria was built between 1885 and 1886 in response to the move of the capital of the Calabar kingdom to Calabar, now the capital of Cross Rivers State. The Residency was constructed to serve as the headquarters of the British Consulate. Its purpose was to enable the Royal Niger Company (RNC) to monitor activities in the port city of Calabar and promote trade with the British. The Residency was initially occupied by Alfred Moloney until his appointment as Vice-Consul in 1890. Since then, The Old Residency has been the official residence of the British diplomatic representatives in Calabar, until it became a property of the Nigerian government after the independence of Nigeria in 1960. The unique two-storey building was designed in the Victorian style by prominent British Architect, Mr. Edward Hiers Ferris. It has a curved roof and a semi-circular verandah that highlights its distinctive features. In addition to serving as the headquarters of the British Consulate in Calabar, The Old Residency reflects the relationship between the British and the Calabar port city as it served as a residence for British officials during their visits. The Old Residency became a protected monument in 1999 when it was gazetted by the Cross Rivers State Government to help preserve the state’s rich architectural and cultural heritage. Today, the building serves as a tourist attraction and a national landmark in Nigeria. It is also a popular venue for cultural and historical events such as art exhibitions, poetry readings, book launches and music performances. Visit one of the famous monuments of Nigeria with your friends and family.

Interesting facts:

1. The Old Residency is located in Calabar, Cross Rivers State in Nigeria. It was traditionally the seat of a British colonial administration in the area. 2. The building has been variously referred to as Winter Palace or White House of Calabar, and is a significant historical monument in Nigeria. 3. The building was the seat of the first British administration in the region when The Royal Niger Company arrived there in 1886. 4. The building was heavily damaged during the Civil War in 1967, when it was used as a military barrack. 5. It was renovated and restored by the Calabar Urban Development Authority in 2013 and is now open to the public as a museum. 6. Inside the museum, visitors can find historical documents, ancient artifacts and artwork. 7. The Old Residency has also been used as a venue for political rallies and significant events, including the first visit of a PDP presidential candidate to the Cross River State in 2016. One of the historical monuments of Nigeria, it tells the story of a bygone era