Media Advisory - Barnum House open June 4

GRAFTON, ON, June 8, 2012 /CNW/ -

Join us this summer at Barnum House for another season of guided tours and special events! Approximately two hours east of Toronto, Barnum House Museum is located in Grafton, in scenic Northumberland County.

Barnum House was built in 1819 by Eliakim Barnum, who was a successful entrepreneur. Barnum immigrated to Haldimand Township from the United States around 1807 and subsequently opened a tavern, a small distillery and a grist mill. By 1820, after the house was built, he added 900 acres of adjoining farmland. The home's design was influenced by American architecture that was popular in the New England states during that time period. Today, it remains one of Ontario's finest examples of neoclassical architecture.

The house was constructed on the foundation of a home destroyed by fire during the War of 1812, most likely started during the night while retreating British soldiers slept on the second floor. Visitors can learn more about this rich history as we commemorate the bicentennial of the War of 1812, and enjoy a tour of period rooms that provide a rare glimpse into 19th-century life in early Ontario.

Barnum House is a National Historic Site owned and operated by the Ontario Heritage Trust. The Trust is an agency of the Government of Ontario dedicated to identifying, preserving, protecting and promoting Ontario's heritage.

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For media inquiries:
Liane Nowosielski
Senior Marketing and Communications Specialist
Ontario Heritage Trust
Telephone: [phone]
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.heritagetrust.on.ca