Black Creek Pioneer Village (Ontario)
Surround yourself in the customs and lifestyle of early residents who built the foundations for modern Ontario. It's an immersive re-creation of a crossroads community found in the Toronto area during the 1800's.
Iconfess that I love living history museums. They are special attractions where people dressed in period clothing bring historic buildings, implements and artefacts to life.
When we think of Toronto, images of the CN Tower come to mind, perhaps Pearson International Airport, Blue Jays ball games at Rogers Centre, the manic bustle of Bay Street, Yonge and Bloor. It’s easy to forget that this scrambling metropolis was once forested lands that had to be carved into the landscape with copious quantities of blood, sweat and tears, without the use of power tools and heavy machinery.
Black Creek Pioneer Village is a collection of vintage buildings sprawled across a rural landscape of 30 acres. While some of the buildings are in their original locations, most originated from communities across Ontario and were moved here and surrounded by verdant gardens and farmland.
Costumed historical interpreters fill the roles of early pioneers – farmers and tradespeople – to show how Canadian pioneers lived, worked and played 150 years ago, without our modern conveniences.
Stop at the admission desk as you enter for a schedule of the day’s demonstrations and activities. Wander on your own asking questions of the interpreters, or call ahead for a tour guided by a knowledgeable staff member.
Rather than opt for a traditional T-shirt or hat, choose from among the many handcrafted items that you’ll cherish for years and that will stimulate memories of your visit.
Black Creek Pioneer Village was created roughly 40 years ago by the Toronto Region Conservation Authority to remind us of how the early settlers lived. From those humble beginnings four decades ago, now forty buildings
grace the property - fully restored and furnished. From mills, stores and shops, to outhouses and inns, the businesses required for a community to survive and flourish are here.
There are plenty of interactive activities for kids to aid their imaginations as they immerse themselves into 18th century life. There’s a ‘Hands on History’ activity centre, discovery stations where they can dress like a pioneer or try outdoor games of the ‘old days’ like hoop and stick, or the game of graces. Excursions throughout the village include a ‘How it’s made Expedition’ and a ‘Day in the Life Adventure’. Let’s not forget visiting with the animals including horses, cows, goats, turkeys and more in the barnyard.
Admission ranges from $11 to $15 and there is a $7 fee for parking. The Village also offers memberships starting at $60 for an individual, which includes unlimited general admission and free parking plus a plethora of savings on food, gift shop purchases and admission to special events and activities.
No, it’s not time travel, but it’s probably as close as I’ll get in my lifetime. Make your RV a time machine and visit them as well.