Loyalist Township

St. John's was one of the first Anglican churches built in Upper Canada. It is the oldest one standing and in use in Ontario. Begun in 1793, the church was completed and used as a place of worship in 1794. Fire destroyed it in 1925 and it was rebuilt that same year, continuing to offer services to the present day.

Hogans’ Honey has been in operation by the same family since 1934. Current owners Ben and Nancy Hogan and their son Tim and his wife Kayleigh manage over 1,000 hives in 31 bee yards (nearly 50 million bees), generating an average of around 60 tons of honey annually! Come and watch the production process, explore the buildings and enjoy samples.

Topsy Farms is a popular tourist destination offering hiking trails, farmyard activities, events, workshops and classes. During Doors Open, explore the farm and property with some fun activities. Hike through a 6-km (3-mile) forest trail, immerse yourself in the organic garden, skip stones at the beach, visit with farm animals and enjoy a scavenger hunt made just for kids.

The Second Chance Ranch is a beautiful farm that is committed to the rehabilitation of animals of all breeds — addressing behaviours and training challenges — to improve the quality of their lives, with the ultimate goal being their forever home or re-homing. Come and experience the positive and friendly environment and visit with the animals!

Babcock Mill’s original owners had intended it to be a gristmill but because the railway transported cheaper flour, it became part of their woolen mill instead. In 1907, it was sold to the Babcocks. Today, it is owned/operated by Loyalist Township. This season, for the first time in over 30 years, all three floors will be open for tours.

Come and experience the unique architecture of Layer Cake Hall. Built in 1859, it was originally commissioned by the Mechanics’ Institute. Over the years, it has passed through different owners and has served various functions. Now owned by Loyalist Township, it houses the Lennox and Addington County Library, Bath Branch. Join the library staff for a fun day!

Come and visit the Amherstview Fire Hall! The Emergency Services Department — formed in 1998 — protects 340 square kilometres (131 square miles) and 17,000 residents through four fire stations. Witness firefighters in action and explore the historical 1962 King Seagrave Pumper, which will be onsite during the event. Enjoy a rare opportunity to explore fire trucks and talk to the team.

Reverend James Peter Scanlon formed an Anglican congregation in the late 1950s. This congregation purchased land for a new church that was officially opened on May 1, 1959. After being partnered to various Anglican parishes, St. Peter’s became its own parish on July 1, 1979. Learn more about this church and its history during Doors Open Loyalist Township.

Until the late 1960s, the Amherstview Community Presbyterian Church hosted services in the Amherstview Public School. Following fundraising efforts, a new building was constructed, which opened on September 29, 1968. As part of the construction, local craftsman Jack Snelgrove built a stunning wooden sanctuary. During Doors Open, learn more about this church and marvel at its magnificent architecture.

When Irish settlers migrated to Amherst Island, they brought a unique way of building walls called dry stacking — layering stones without the use of mortar. This tradition has continued to this day. Although you can see beautiful displays of dry-stone stacking throughout the Island, visit Topsy Farms for an opportunity to speak to an actual dry stone waller!

Discover the history of Bath United Church during Doors Open Loyalist Township! Constructed in 1812, it has been in continuous use since September 30, 1849. The church, inspired by Sir Christopher Wren's classical parish church design, showcases remarkable beauty. Unveil the church's captivating story and architectural heritage.

From 1883 to 1976, the Neilson Store provided Amherst Islanders with their basic necessities. After it closed in 1976, there were many changes in ownership until the building, newly renovated dock and grounds were sold to Loyalist Township to become the Neilson Store Museum and Cultural Centre. Come and learn more about the history of the store — and Amherst Island.

Come and explore Bath's history. Since its construction, this building has served as a town hall, courthouse, municipal office, auction house, concert hall, Royal Canadian Legion hall and sports venue. Discover exhibits showcasing pre-colonial times to the Second World War, including First Nations archaeology, artifacts and war memorabilia. Special activities and a guest speaker will celebrate the historical downtown buildings.

Come and explore this house’s magnificent architecture. Built in 1793, Fairfield House preserves the building skills of the Loyalist settlers. It offers one of the best-preserved late-18th-century buildings in Ontario. During Doors Open, learn about the Fairfield family and early Loyalist settlers. And witness how settlement began here with just tents, basic rations and tools from the Crown.