Rev. John Stoeckle

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The J. Steckle Heritage Homestead is named in honour of John Steckle (Stoeckle), a farmer, weaver, and pastor of Mennonite faith, originally from Switzerland. He and his wife, Esther Bleam, built the Homestead in 1833. The site was the ideal location due to its proximity to a spring/artesian well, which had a history of native use that predated European occupation. The Steckle Homestead has remained in the hands of the Steckle family since the time of the original settlers, with many of the original buildings still intact. In 1978 Dr. Jean Steckle purchased the Homestead and remaining 10.2 acres from her parents. In 1983 the J. Steckle Heritage Homestead was designated a heritage property in the City of Kitchener under the Ontario Heritage Act. In 1988 a non-profit organization was established to preserve the site as an education centre for youth.

Steckle Heritage Farm