Get to know some great Canadians. Here are seven great day trip ideas that will help you do just that in Hamilton Halton Brant.
- 1
An eye-opening glimpse into the life of a poetess
Chiefswood National Historic Site in Ohsweken is the birthplace and childhood home of Mohawk poetess E. Pauline Johnson. This unique mansion and museum features a selection of original furnishings and Johnson family artifacts. On the grounds of this National Historic Site you’ll find rare grassland prairies, Carolinian forests, swamplands and the Grand River. Rich in the history of both Mohawk and English cultures, a visit to this stately home provides unique insight into 19th century life.
- 2
Living History in Stoney Creek
At the 19th century homestead and National Historic Site, Battlefield House Museum & Park, you can explore the home of the Gage family who retreated to the cellar during the War of 1812 as the Battle of Stoney Creek raged outside.
- 3
Alexander Graham Bell and more in Brantford and Brant
Take the day and discover the achievements of Alexander Graham Bell at Bell Homestead National Historic Site, the story of Irish immigrants the Good Family at Myrtleville House Museum, and the life of a true Canadian original at Adelaide Hunter Hoodless Homestead Estate.
- 4
Tour the estates of Hamiltonians who made history
A 40-room Italianate villa (Dundurn National Historic Site) provides the backdrop to story of Sir Allan Napier MacNab, railway magnate, lawyer and Premier of the United Canadas. At Whitehern Historic House & Garden, a 19th century urban estate was home to the McQuestern family, headed by a wealthy industrialist.
- 5
Take a trip through history in Ancaster
At Fieldcote Memorial Park & Museum, join the Farmer family as they journey from “The Ark” of family lore through 150 years of life in Ancaster, exploring how their world changed between confederation and 2017. Explore the history of Enerals Griffin and other early Black settlers at Griffin House, a preserved early 19th-century home set on a hilltop overlooking the beautiful Dundas Valley.
- 6
Step back in time and witness the evolution of Canadian culture
The story of the Ireland family comes alive at Westfield Heritage Village alongside log buildings, a blacksmith shop, a railway station and locomotive, and a one-room schoolhouse.
- 7
Explore Oakville’s heritage at the estate of its founding family
Year-round guided tours and exhibitions, special events and workshops are all part of your experience on the historic grounds of Erchless Estate, once home to six generations of Oakville’s founding family.
