John R. Park Homestead

915 County Road 50 East, Harrow Ontario N0R 1G0 519-738-2029

Description

Journey back in time at John R. Park Homestead, winner of the Ontario Historical Society’s Russell K. Cooper Award for Best Living History Museum. Built in 1842 along the banks of Lake Erie, the magnificent Classical Revival home of John and Amelia Park has been fully restored and costumed guides welcome visitors all year round. Explore the historic home, taste baking from the kitchen fireplace, and play with wooden toys in the children’s bedrooms. Witness the workings of an 1885 steam engine powered sawmill and stop by the blacksmith shop to see what’s happening at the coal-fired forge. The view of the lake from the wooden boardwalk is breathtaking. Themed events and festivals are well worth a special visit. Watch for the Maple Festival in March, Lost Arts Festival in August, and Harvest and Horses Festival in October.

Meet the Staff

Museum curator Kris Ives claims she has the best office view of anyone in Essex County. It’s a claim that’s hard to refute when you see that her window overlooks the blue rolling waters of Lake Erie. Staff member Cayla, a long-time volunteer, says it’s easy to get into her costumed role as a mid-nineteenth century pioneer. The assortment of orchards, gardens and barns on the property make John R. Park Homestead an incredible place to work. “You don’t have to go far if you’re craving a change of scenery,” says Cayla. Inspired by the rich history along Lake Erie’s north shore, both Kris and Cayla are excited to help others shed light on the past.