About the S.W.O. Heritage Village:

     Southwestern Ontario Heritage Village, centrally located in Essex County, encompasses 54 wooded acres and manicured lawns.  There are a number of nineteenth and early twentieth century buildings, including log cabins, a general store, barber/cobbler shop, church and school.

All of our buildings have been relocated here from various sites in Essex County.  Once here, they are set on permanent foundations, restored, and stocked with furnishings of the past.  The displays are changed periodically, which gives a new look each time you visit the Village.  Many of the artifacts at our Village are donated or loaned to us from Essex County residents.

Our Transportation Museum is a must for our visitors.   This museum displays antique and classic cars, wagons, trucks, motorcycles, and other memorabilia from bygone days.  Our display includes the only surviving 1893 Shamrock, which is one of the oldest gas-powered cars in Ontario, and our 1992 Dodge Viper, which was the first model shipped to Canada.

The Village is sponsored by the Historic Vehicle Society of Ontario (Windsor), with its members dedicated to preserving the past for the present and future generations.  Funding is supplied by special events sponsored by the Society, as well as public support and Government grants.

Tour groups are always welcome at the Village, and may be arranged by calling the office (519) 776-6909.  School groups, Guides, Scouts, Brownies, Cubs and day camps enjoy a visit to the Village where they have been impressed with the artifacts and discussions about local history.

Our Church is also a great place to have your wedding! Weddings are held in our Church throughout the season, which is ideal for an intimate ceremony.  It is also available for showers, anniversaries, or meetings.  Just call the office for more information and prices.

Special Events / Activities:

Annual Special Events

April & September (Teutonia Club, Windsor)
June
July
Labour Day Weekend
October
October

  call ahead for specific dates

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Picture Gallery:

    Pioneer homes, store, school, church and more (1800-1920) moved or reconstructed on site, provide a look into an earlier time period.

(click on images below to enlarge)

     A visit to the Transportation Museum reveals various vintage modes of travel and vehicles including the 1893 Shamrock, supposedly the first gasoline-powered car in Ontario.

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Village Hours:

Wheelchair Accessible (call for specific accessibility needs)

Admission:

     A set donation upon entrance to the Village, helps the Historic Vehicle Society provide the necessary maintenance and upkeep of the Village for visitors.

Directions:

Location:
8 km. South of Essex, Ontario on County Rd. 23 (6155 Arner Townline)

Mailing Address:

Heritage Village
Box 221
Harrow, Ontario, Canada
NOR 1G0

For information ...
phone: (519) 776-6909
      fax: (519) 776-8321

Come and visit us...bring your picnic lunch, enjoy a walk and see nature at work at the Southwestern Ontario Heritage Village!