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During World War I , a young soldier, Ernest Johnstone,
who was serving in Britain, formed a desire to translate some of the colour
and beauty of England and Scotland into a tangible form on
his native Prince Edward Island.
Upon returning home, he acquired a nearby farm and christened it "Woodleigh" after his ancestral home in Annandale, Scotland. He began the long and arduous task of landscaping the rough farmland to resemble the
beautiful manicured parks of Britain. For over fifty years he laboured, levelling hollows, up-rooting old trees and hauling home the carefully selected granite rock for his projects.
The farmhouse on the property, built in 1867, was soon occupied by Ernest's wife and their three children. On the grounds Ernest built a lily pond, sundial, wishing well, and surrounding stone walls.
Following service in World War II, Lt. Col. Johnstone and his son, Senator Archibald Johnstone, also a war veteran, began to build replicas of some of Britain's most famous buildings and castles.
Since Prince Edward Island's rock is a porous red sandstone, the Johnstone's imported stone from the neighbouring provinces of New Brunswick and Nova Scotia. Glamis Castle was the first replica to be built, followed by Gray's Church, Anne Hathaway's Cottage, Shakespeare's Birthplace and the Blue Dragon Inn.
By 1957, intrigued Islanders and visitors were arriving in such numbers
that the grounds were officially opened to the public. It is interesting
to note that what began as a private passion has become a world
renowned attraction that has hosted millions people.
Woodleigh is truly unique. Generations of visitors continue to enjoy the peace and beauty of the natural setting, and fondly remember their earlier visits of long ago.
Woodleigh Replicas & Gardens is now owned and operated by the
Steele family of Prince Edward Island. Their sincerest wish is to carry
on the work of Lt. Col. Johnstone and to preserve this unique and
magical experience for more generations to enjoy.
The Old Curiosity Shop
One of Charles Dickens' best-known stories is the poignant tale of Little Nell and her grandfather, and the characters who frequented their shop, which was also their home.
A version of the Old Curiosity shop is a popular tourist attraction in London.
The replica of this building at Woodleigh features two floors filled with unusual and interesting antiques and trinkets, such as an original "Penny Farthing" bicycle, several carved jade objects, china and glass, and other "curiosities".
Woodleigh Replicas & Gardens
375 Millman Road, Burlington
RR # 2 Kensington
PEI, C0A 1M0
Tel: (902) 836-3401 Fax: (902) 836-3620
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History