This sturdy homestead was the site of one of the most important scientific breakthroughs in history. On July 26th, 1874, the young Alexander Graham Bell sat in the dale here, in a spot he called his "dreaming place", and pondered the quest for a "speaking telegraph". As he stared down at the Grand River that warm summer day, inspiration struck: Bell grasped the principle on which his most famous invention, the telephone, would work. On a subsequent visit to his parents here two years later, he mounted one of the three crucial public demonstrations that proved the telephone was a practical form of communication. Bell’s invention would reshape the world.
For a century, the Homestead has welcomed visitors from far and wide. As one of Ontario’s oldest historic home museums, it has grown significantly in that time, with three restored historic buildings and an eclectic collection of original Bell family artifacts. Together they tell the story of how a young teacher of the deaf came to invent the telephone.
Tours provided by staff in 19th century costume, demonstrations of various household activities, and audio-visual presentations will provide an entertaining and educational experience. The Homestead is situated on ten acres of land that incorporates period-style rural perennial flower and herb gardens surrounded by wooded grounds, all overlooking the Grand River. A picnic area is available for use from May to late Autumn. Washroom facilities are provided and all buildings are wheelchair accessible. Don’t forget to visit our museum store and the Homestead CafÃ©!