John R. Park Homestead

John R. Park Homestead A visit to the John R. Park Homestead will take you back in time to the 1850s. Come visit us soon to learn more about this important local landmark!

Park Homestead Conservation Area will take you back in time to the 1850s. The house and farm buildings of John and Amelia Park are restored to bring the nineteenth century to life. Explore the Parks’ magnificent Classical Revival home, built in 1842, taste baking from the kitchen fireplace or play with a wooden toy in the children’s bedrooms. See the workings of an 1885 steam engine-powered sawmil

l and stop by the blacksmith shop to witness the making of small hardware and repairing of farm tools at the coal-fired forge. Don’t miss the working smoke house, ice house and barn. For a breath of fresh air, take a scenic walk on the lakeshore boardwalk. Be sure to check out the gift shop and exhibit area. You can also take in the theatre where an audio-visual presentation will transport you back in time to John Park’s day. And there’s more! Each spring we plant the garden with heirloom crops, flowers and vegetables. In the summer, livestock are a popular addition. Thousands of school children attend field trips here each year for hands-on learning opportunities about pioneer life and the importance of preserving our heritage. Many special events are held each year, so be sure to check out the Homestead’s events calendar to learn more. The Homestead is also available to rent for meetings, special events, weddings and showers. Group bookings available anytime by advance appointment.

06/21/2026

On June 21, Essex Region Conservation Authority honours National Indigenous Peoples Day, a time to recognize and celebrate the rich histories, diverse cultures, languages, traditions, and contributions of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis peoples across Canada. ERCA acknowledges that the Essex Region is a well-traveled land located on the traditional territory of various First Nations – particularly the Three Fires Confederacy of First Nations, comprised of the Ojibwe, Odawa, and Potawatomi Peoples. We are grateful for the enduring stewardship, knowledge, and leadership of Indigenous peoples, who have cared for these lands and waters since time immemorial.

Today’s the day! Friends of the Homestead Fundraising Yard Sale! Something for everyone! Bring Dad out on a treasure hun...
06/21/2026

Today’s the day! Friends of the Homestead Fundraising Yard Sale! Something for everyone! Bring Dad out on a treasure hunt.

🚨 The Friends of the Homestead Annual fundraising yard sale is tomorrow, Sunday, June 21st from 8am to 3pm. 🛍Some incred...
06/20/2026

🚨 The Friends of the Homestead Annual fundraising yard sale is tomorrow, Sunday, June 21st from 8am to 3pm. 🛍Some incredible donations have come in! Here's a sneak peek from setup day. Come on out tomorrow for some sustainable shopping that supports a great local cause! 💚

This Sunday! 📅The Friends of the Homestead will be hosting their annual fundraising yard sale at the John R. Park Homes...
06/18/2026

This Sunday!
📅The Friends of the Homestead will be hosting their annual fundraising yard sale at the John R. Park Homestead on Sunday, June 21st from 8am - 2pm.
Yes, that's Father's Day! Bring out all of the fun fellas in your life - shop the sale and participate in some special family-friendly activities in honour of Father's Day.🎉
If you would like to donate items to the sale, please contact the Homestead to make arrangements for drop-off by appointment. Please no 'soft' items (no clothing, no stuffed animals, etc.). The Friends' proceeds from the sale directly benefit the preservation of the John R. Park Homestead! 🥰 Thank you, in advance, for your support!

An American Toad enjoying the Toldo Foundation Wildlife Viewing Area at the Homestead!
06/05/2026

An American Toad enjoying the Toldo Foundation Wildlife Viewing Area at the Homestead!

Service update: The parking lot, grounds, and museum at John R. Park Homestead Conservation Area will be closed Friday, ...
06/05/2026

Service update: The parking lot, grounds, and museum at John R. Park Homestead Conservation Area will be closed Friday, June 5 while hazard trees from recent wind events are removed along the Fox Creek trail. The site will reopen Saturday, June 6 at 11 AM. Thank you for your patience as we undertake this important work. Read more: https://wix.to/DpONiSe

A few spaces remain for this Friday's felted wool workshop! Great for older children who are crafty and are looking for ...
06/01/2026

A few spaces remain for this Friday's felted wool workshop! Great for older children who are crafty and are looking for something to do on the PA Day! (Ages 12+ for this workshop, please. Children must be accompanied by their adult during the class.) Register to: [email protected]

Join us for some good old fashioned fun at the John R. Park Homestead!
06/01/2026

Join us for some good old fashioned fun at the John R. Park Homestead!

NOTICE OF SERVICE DISRUPTION: Please be advised that the John R. Park Homestead is closed today for a private event. The...
05/30/2026

NOTICE OF SERVICE DISRUPTION: Please be advised that the John R. Park Homestead is closed today for a private event. The museum reopens tomorrow, Sunday, May 31, at 11am. Apologies for any inconvenience.

Address

915 County Road 50 East
Essex, ON
N0R1G0

Telephone

5197382029

Website

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