Preserving Our Rural Heritage – One Barn at a Time

Since 1978, the John R. Park Homestead has welcomed thousands of visitors as a living museum and conservation area, offering a glimpse into 19th-century rural life. In 2025, thanks to generous donors, we celebrated the once-in-a-lifetime restoration of the historic home of John and Amelia Park. And, thanks to your generosity, restoration of the historic Horse Barn is expected to begin later this year.  Now, we need your help to complete the story.

Why Your Support Matters

The Homestead’s barns are more than buildings — they are living classrooms, community gathering spaces, and symbols of our agricultural heritage. Each one plays a vital role in education, conservation, and cultural programming:

   The Calf Barn (1880s): Home to beloved sheep Maple, Sugar, and Taffy, and a cornerstone of our livestock program.

   The Hog Barn (1840s): One of the oldest structures on site, now a hub for educational programs and the iconic Maple Market.

   The Grain Barn (1860s–70s): A former teaching space, now used for open artifact storage, the costume collection, events, and volunteer activities.

  The Tobacco Barn (1850s): Once used for agriculture, now the curatorial heart of the Homestead.

The Restoration Needs  

Historic barns like these have often been described as ‘the cathedrals of rural Ontario’, and their protection is an important connection to our rural heritage. To ensure that the historic barns at the John R. Park Homestead and their important connection to our history is preserved, significant investment is required.  

What Needs to Be Done

A 2022 architectural review identified critical restoration needs:

• Structural and foundation repairs
• Restoration of wood siding, windows, and doors
• Restoration of original hardware
• Pest protection (e.g., powder post beetles)
• Safety upgrades and repainting

Cost Estimates for Barn Restoration

Calf Barn - $124,000

Hog Barn - $100,000

Grain Barn - $43,000

Tobacco Barn - $45,000

Total Barn Cost Estimate - $312,000

How you can help! 

Your donation will help preserve these irreplaceable pieces of our shared history. Every dollar brings us closer to restoring these barns — and ensuring future generations can experience the magic of the Homestead.