Servants' Life Tour at Parkwood National Historic Site
Difficulty
easy
Duration
1.5 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most adults able to walk and climb stairs comfortably.
Overview
Step behind the scenes at Parkwood National Historic Site in Oshawa on the Servants' Life guided tour, where the stories of household staff come to life in spaces rarely open to the public. Discover the hidden history of the McLaughlin estate through an engaging 90-minute journey.
Servants' Tours
Guided Tour * 90 minutes * Journey back in time
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About This Adventure
Explore the hidden world of household staff on the Servants' Life guided tour at Parkwood, a National Historic Site. Discover the rich history of the McLaughlin Family's estate from 1917 to 1972, as you navigate through the spaces where staff lived and worked, revealing captivating stories of the past.
See spaces where the household staff lived and worked!
About
The Servants' Life guided tour allows visitors to see spaces where the household staff lived and worked. Join us as we share with you the history of these spaces through the 55 years that the McLaughlin Family lived at Parkwood.
As a National Historic Site, Parkwood researches and interprets the histories and stories of the McLaughlin past. These are the stories of people who lived and worked at the Estate between 1917 and 1972. At times, views and vocabulary will be used/expressed in interpreting past social norms/practices that may differ from the ideals and values of today.
Important Note: Multiple floors will be accessed on this tour requiring guests to make their way up and down multiple staircases.
Adventure Tips
Prepare for Stairs
The tour involves several flights of stairs, so wear comfortable footwear and be ready to navigate multiple levels.
Arrive Early
Tours leave promptly at scheduled times; arriving 10 minutes early ensures you won’t miss a step of the experience.
Dress for Indoor Walking
Wear breathable, comfortable clothing suitable for walking indoors during a roughly 90-minute guided tour.
Mind Sensitive Content
Tour content reflects historical social norms that may differ from today’s values; prepare for candid discussion.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Eastern Gray Squirrel common in the gardens.
- Seasonal sightings of migrating songbirds around the grounds.
History
The McLaughlin Family, prominent Oshawa industrialists, shaped the estate and contributed significantly to Canadian automotive history.
Conservation
Parkwood combines historic preservation with sustainable site management to protect the estate’s architecture and surrounding gardens.
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Adventure Hotspots in Toronto
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Comfortable Walking Shoes
Supportive shoes help navigate multiple staircases and indoor surfaces safely.
Layered Clothing
Indoor temperatures may vary, so layers allow for comfort throughout the tour.
Rain Jacket or Umbrella
Spring showers are common, so pack rain protection when planning your visit.
spring specific
Camera or Smartphone
Capture exterior views of the estate and gardens, though cameras typically aren’t allowed inside.