By Dr. Adebunmi Akinbo 
Following the restoration of Jaekel House in 2010, a new chapter began for Legacy 1995 with the appointment of the organisation’s first curator in 2011. This milestone transformed the Jaekel House Railway Museum into an active cultural space for education, community engagement, and creative use.
Oluwaseun Adeniyi was appointed as curator, bringing both academic training in History and International Studies and a passion for heritage to the role. She also served as Honorary Secretary of Legacy 1995 during this period.
One of her earliest and most successful initiatives was opening up the museum to schools across Lagos and its environs. She developed educational sessions and guided tours that quickly became popular, leading to a significant increase in school excursions and bookings. With training support from the British Museum, she introduced learning modules that brought history to life for young audiences, making the museum a vital resource for education.
During her tenure, Seun also encouraged volunteering, engaging young professionals—especially architects—whose contributions led to the development of the Jaekel Secret Garden. This new space not only enhanced the grounds but also positioned the museum as a creative hub. The site became a sought-after location for films, photoshoots, and cultural activities, including Kunle Afolayan’s acclaimed movie October 1st, outdoor cinema events, and family hangouts.
She also successfully managed relationships with the Nigerian Railway Corporation and the National Commission for Museums and Monuments (NCMM), strengthening institutional ties and ensuring the museum’s activities were aligned with broader heritage and railway preservation goals.
Her role as curator between 2011 and 2014 laid important foundations for the Railway Museum’s visibility, impact, and sustainability. This period remains a defining moment in Legacy’s history of safeguarding and celebrating Nigeria’s built and cultural heritage.
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First Published: https://www.updates.legacy1995.ng/2015/07/11/re-2011-appointment-of-legacys-first-curator-at-jaekel-house-railway-museum/
