The McFarland House is the one of the oldest surviving structures in the district. Visitors here will be met by costumed interpreters who will educate them on McFarland House history, experience their conservatory tea room along with freshly made desserts, and get a taste of gracious living in Niagara-on-the-Lake. The McFarland house is one of reenactment, and as such it is essential for the theme of the era to be represented in a way that is true to the original Heritage, as listed in the fifth rule of Heritage Interpretation Ingredients.
When open, the McFarland House features costumed historical interpreters who provide tours of the house and property and educate visitors on its history. When covid isn't taking over the world, they also host several special events on holidays, provide freshly made desserts, and have a featured conservatory tea room. The surrounding yard also features a playground and picnic areas.
The McFarland House was built in 1800 and is the oldest property owned by the Niagara Parks Commission. During the year of 1800 and on land granted by King George, John McFarland built the house. It is one of the handful of buildings that was erected before the War of 1812 and is still standing strong. During the War of 1812 it was used as a hospital by both British and American forces with a British battery located behind the house which was used to protect the river. This house and property also survived the burning of Newark in the winter of 1813.
Importance Within NPC
The McFarland house is very important to the NPC for historical reasons. Not only is it one of the oldest standing buildings in Niagara-on-the-Lake but it is also the oldest piece of the puzzle that is the Niagara Parks Commission. This building stood as a hospital during the War of 1812 which gives visitors a learning guide into the past and how medical staff worked during the war. It also educates visitors on its mid-19th-century dooryard garden, which are infrequently seen in our modern day homes. The tours also provide a look into the past on what it was like to live in the 1800's and beyond. The Niagara Parks Commission has worked hard to restore this house and protect its grounds since 1959.
Niagara Parks Commission
| Phone: | 905-468-3322 |
McFarland House is closed for the season. Please visit https://www.niagaraparks.com/visit/heritage/mcfarl... for further information on reopening and seasonal schedules.
This location is wheelchair accessible.
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