Welcome to the online home of the Malamah-Thomas family!
This website serves as a digital gathering place dedicated to preserving the rich history, celebrating the legacy, and connecting the members of the Malamah-Thomas family, whose roots run deep in the vibrant city of Freetown, Sierra Leone.
Our Origins: A Legacy Forged in Freetown
The story of the Malamah-Thomas family is intrinsically linked to the remarkable life of John Henry 'Malamah' Thomas (c. 1844/1845 – 1922). Born in the village of Hastings near Freetown to Liberated African parents of Egba (Yoruba) heritage, John Henry Thomas rose from humble beginnings to become one of the most influential figures in late 19th and early 20th century Sierra Leone.
A self-made magnate, entrepreneur, and community leader, he built a thriving business empire, significantly contributing to trade between the Freetown Colony and the interior regions. His primary trading post was located at Malamah on the Rokel River, and it was from this center of his operations that he earned the enduring nickname "Malamah," which became integrated into the family name.
Beyond his commercial success, John Henry Malamah-Thomas was a dedicated public servant and philanthropist. He served multiple terms as the Mayor of Freetown (1904-1912), was appointed an unofficial member of the Legislative Council, and was a committed member and leader within the Holy Trinity Church. His life exemplified resilience, business acumen, and a deep commitment to the development of his community and nation. The impressive "Malamah House" he constructed on East Street in Freetown stood for many years as a testament to his success.
Generations of Contribution
From these distinguished beginnings, the Malamah-Thomas family has grown, contributing across various fields both within Sierra Leone and internationally. Descendants have pursued paths in academia, medicine, nutrition, public service, and many other areas, carrying forward a spirit of achievement and community engagement. While many branches remain connected to Sierra Leone, the family has also spread across the globe, forming part of the wider Sierra Leonean diaspora.
Purpose of This Website
This platform aims to be:
- A Living Archive: To collect, preserve, and share the history, stories, photographs, and documents related to the Malamah-Thomas family lineage.
- A Connection Hub: To help family members, near and far, connect or reconnect with their heritage and with each other.
- A Genealogical Resource: To provide a central point for accurate genealogical information for family members and interested researchers (respecting privacy where necessary).
- A Celebration: To honour the achievements and contributions of past and present family members.