This is an archived event from Culture Days 2025.
Images
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![rock garden with perennial flowers in bloom]()
Historic rock garden at Erchless Estate -
![Black and white historic photo of a man sitting on stone steps in a rock garden. A young girl is standing on the step next to him. A crow is perched on the man's arm eating a fruit in the man's hand..]()
Robert Turney and his niece sitting in the Erchless rock garden -
![View of rock garden with perennial flowers in bloom. A creek and harbour with sailboats is seen in the distance]()
Historic garden at Erchless Estate, overlooking the Oakville Harbour and Sixteen Mile Creek
Garden Tour: Oakville Museum Gardens - Over 150 Years in Bloom
In-person
History & heritage Museum Nature & outdoors TourDate and time
,
Location
Oakville Museum
8 Navy Street
Oakville, ON
Access
Free, and accepts optional pay-what-you-may donations for admission.
Offered in English.
Has gender-neutral washrooms.
About
Explore the rich, evolving history of the gardens at Erchless Estate. This talk will journey through centuries, beginning with the land’s Indigenous heritage and its use of native flora for sustenance, medicinal, and ceremonial purposes. Learn how the estate transformed in the 19th and 20th centuries when the resident family developed edible gardens to support their kitchen and created a 1920s historic ornamental rock garden—a feature reflecting the horticultural trends and philosophies of the time. Each generation has left its mark on this beautiful, enduring landscape.
The presentation will be led by knowledgeable staff from both the horticulture and museum teams – professionals who have worked on the property for many years and bring a deep understanding of its history and stewardship. Following the talk, join us for a guided walk through the historic gardens to experience Erchless Estate’s botanical legacy firsthand.
Spots available on a first-come, first-served basis. Capacity: 20 people per tour.
Links
- Oakville Museum website oakville.ca
Organizer
Oakville Museum
The historic buildings of Erchless Estate, once home to Oakville's founding family, are now the setting for the Oakville Museum. We offer guided tours of the Chisholm family home, changing exhibitions, special events and programs that tell the fascinating stories of our town. Visitors can stroll through the grounds and explore the many points of historical interest while enjoying picturesque lakeside views. Open Tuesday to Sunday from 1 to 4:30 p.m. General admission is by donation.
Oakville Museum exhibits are also on display in our satellite gallery at QEP Community and Culture Centre (2303 Bridge Road) and recreation facilities across Oakville.
The Oakville Museum is located on the lands of Treaties 14 & 22, the Treaty Lands and Territory of the Mississaugas of the Credit. We acknowledge and thank the Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation, the Treaty holders, for being stewards of this traditional territory.
This event is part of a hub:
Oakville Museum
Oakville Museum Oakville, ONEnjoy magnificent views and beautiful buildings, grounds and gardens at Erchless Estate. The Oakville Museum offers guided tours of the Chisholm family home, changing exhibitions, special events and programs that tell the fascinating storie...
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