Steckle Heritage Homestead, Kitchener - Preservation
In the south end of Kitchener on Bleams Road, you will find in the midst of an industrial basin the J. Steckle Heritage Homestead designated as a historical site by Heritage Ontario. The Homestead is named in honor of John Steckle, a farmer, weaver, and pastor of Mennonite faith, originally from Switzerland. He and his wife, Esther Bleam, settled at the homestead in 1833. The farm has remained in the hands of the Steckle family since the time of the original settlers with many of the buildings still intact. In 1978 the current owner, Dr. Jean Steckle, purchased the Homestead and 10.2 acres of the original farm. In 1983 it was designated a heritage property by the City of Kitchener under the Ontario Heritage Act. In 1988 a non-profit corporation was established and its mandate is dedicated to providing agricultural, education and recreational programs to children and families within the community. It provides youth with the opportunity to enjoy a valuable environmental experience, at the same time providing a unique insight into the lives of the early settlers of the Waterloo Region. The old farm house and buildings are a true treasure mixed into a residential/industrial area. One would not expect to find this working farm. Over the years, the Foundation has funded many projects in order to keep the buildings preserved.
