Spruce Lane Farmhouse
Bronte Creek Provincial Park
Oakville, Ont.
April 18, 2026
History
In 1877, the land was owned by Thomas Blanchard. Thomas Blanchard (1821 - 1892) married Mary Alton (1825 - 1902). Together they had eight children.
Henry C. Breckon would purchase the property and in 1899 he constructed the double brick house. This house would replace a wooden frame house that was built in 1858. The new house was built on the same foundation. The wooden frame house was moved and used to accommodate the hired help. Later on, it was use to store apples before it was eventually torn down. This new house was built for entertaining. In the early 1900ds, the Breckon's had parties and dances with orchestras. The main dance floor was the larger room on the west side of the main stairs. In the basement, there is a post under the centre of this room to reinforce the floor as square dancing was quite strenuous. The Breckon family would move into the house on December 31, 1899.
Henry C. Breckon would purchase the property and in 1899 he constructed the double brick house. This house would replace a wooden frame house that was built in 1858. The new house was built on the same foundation. The wooden frame house was moved and used to accommodate the hired help. Later on, it was use to store apples before it was eventually torn down. This new house was built for entertaining. In the early 1900ds, the Breckon's had parties and dances with orchestras. The main dance floor was the larger room on the west side of the main stairs. In the basement, there is a post under the centre of this room to reinforce the floor as square dancing was quite strenuous. The Breckon family would move into the house on December 31, 1899.
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Henry Christopher Breckon was born on June 6, 1861. He would marry Margaret Jane MacKay on September 26, 1883. Margaret was born on March 28, 1860. Together they would have four children.
Their first born, William Ralph Breckon was born on July 7, 1884. Sadly he would not make it to his first birthday, passing away on January 6, 1885. Christina Ada "Tina" Breckon was born on November 13, 1886. She would marry William Norman Gilbert in 1908 on the front lawn of the farmhouse (it was known as Spruce Lawn then), and together they would have four children. Christina passed away on January 9, 1971. Alice Alberta Breckon was born on November 19, 1887. She would marry William Sutcliffe Wood in 1911. Together they would have four children. Alice passed away in 1964. Gordon Glasby Breckon was born on October 12, 1890. He would marry Myrtle Louise Heslop in1916. Together they had two children. Gordon passed away on June 2, 1978. |
Henry C. and Margaret Jane Breckon
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Henry Breckon would make a substantial income through the sale of prize-winning apple and strawberry crops. Henry and Margaret were known for their oyster suppers and lavish parties. Henry was described as being more than six feet tall, while Margaret was only five feet tall.
Margaret Jane Breckon would pass away on May 17, 1930 with a listed cause of death as Myocarditis.
Henry Christopher Breckon would pass away on September 8, 1931 with a listed cause of death as Arterio Sclerosis & Nephritis. His body was laid out in the parlour room of the home for the wake.
Descendants of the Breckon family would continue to live in the house until the 1960s. George Russell Breckon and his wife, Frances, as well as their daughter, Brenda, were the last Breckon's to live in the house. George Breckon was the son of Gordon Glasby Breckon, and grandson of Henry Breckon. His daughter, Brenda, had her wedding reception at the farm. It was the last large family function held at the farm before it was sold.
Margaret Jane Breckon would pass away on May 17, 1930 with a listed cause of death as Myocarditis.
Henry Christopher Breckon would pass away on September 8, 1931 with a listed cause of death as Arterio Sclerosis & Nephritis. His body was laid out in the parlour room of the home for the wake.
Descendants of the Breckon family would continue to live in the house until the 1960s. George Russell Breckon and his wife, Frances, as well as their daughter, Brenda, were the last Breckon's to live in the house. George Breckon was the son of Gordon Glasby Breckon, and grandson of Henry Breckon. His daughter, Brenda, had her wedding reception at the farm. It was the last large family function held at the farm before it was sold.
Christina Ada "Tina" Breckon
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Alice Alberta Breckon
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Gordon Glasby Breckon - in his 80s, with Granddaughter
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Tarot Spread - Before The Investigation
You’ve pulled:
Overall Energy of the Location
This doesn’t read as oppressive or malicious. It reads as intelligent, observant, and emotionally imprinted — like a place that remembers things and occasionally reacts.
Six of Wands (Upright) — Residual Pride / Past Life Energy
This card points to:
There’s a sense of ownership or legacy lingering here.
Nine of Swords (Reversed) — Lingering Anxiety Releasing
Reversed, this is key:
Page of Swords (Reversed) — Watcher Energy / Curiosity
This is your most “active” card:
It’s not aggressive — but it is aware.
Putting It All Together
Spruce Lane Farmhouse feels like:
More like: Quiet, until you start paying attention to it.
Final Verdict
Active? → Yes
Intelligent? → Likely
Negative? → No
Worth investigating? → Absolutely
This feels like one of those locations where: The more patient and respectful you are, the more it gives back.
- Six of Wands (upright)
- Nine of Swords (reversed)
- Page of Swords (reversed)
Overall Energy of the Location
This doesn’t read as oppressive or malicious. It reads as intelligent, observant, and emotionally imprinted — like a place that remembers things and occasionally reacts.
Six of Wands (Upright) — Residual Pride / Past Life Energy
This card points to:
- A strong human presence tied to pride, recognition, or status
- Someone who may have felt important or respected in their time
- Could be residual energy from a former owner, worker, or figure connected to the land
There’s a sense of ownership or legacy lingering here.
Nine of Swords (Reversed) — Lingering Anxiety Releasing
Reversed, this is key:
- Past stress, fear, or emotional strain tied to the location
- But, it’s not active in a harmful way anymore
- More like echoes of worry, not ongoing torment
- People who struggled here (illness, financial stress, isolation, etc.)
- Emotional residue that can feel heavy at night, but isn’t trying to harm
- Uneasy feelings
- Heightened sensitivity
- “Something feels off” moments
Page of Swords (Reversed) — Watcher Energy / Curiosity
This is your most “active” card:
- Observant, curious, possibly cautious presence
- Not necessarily communicative in a clear way
- Can show inconsistent responses, trickster-lite behavior, or just, watching
It’s not aggressive — but it is aware.
Putting It All Together
Spruce Lane Farmhouse feels like:
- A place with history and personal attachment
- Some emotional residue from stressful times
- And at least one aware, observant presence
More like: Quiet, until you start paying attention to it.
Final Verdict
Active? → Yes
Intelligent? → Likely
Negative? → No
Worth investigating? → Absolutely
This feels like one of those locations where: The more patient and respectful you are, the more it gives back.
Rachel's Experience
Initial Thoughts
Walking into the farmhouse felt like stepping directly back in time. The space was much larger than anticipated, and the lighting created an atmosphere that genuinely felt like entering a time machine. Each room carried such a strong sense of presence that it almost felt as though the Breckon family could appear at any moment, simply going about their daily lives.
There was a distinct watchful energy throughout the home—something aware of our presence and seemingly assessing our intentions. It didn’t feel threatening, but rather observant, as if deciding whether to engage or remain in the background.
The artifacts placed throughout the house contributed heavily to the sense that this was once a deeply lived-in home. Every object seemed to hold a story. That said, the headless mannequins scattered throughout would easily startle anyone in the dark, adding an unexpected edge to the environment. Despite that, even with the lights out, the farmhouse maintained a feeling of safety and calm.
Investigation Thoughts
The investigation itself started off slowly. It felt as though any potential spirits or energies were taking their time, “sniffing us out” and determining whether we were worth interacting with.
As the night progressed, we began to experience some activity. The REM pod registered a few interesting hits, while the Trip Wire and K2 meters showed occasional activations. The music box also went off at one point, though we are still unsure whether that was triggered by one of us or something external.
The most compelling moments came during the Estes Method sessions. I conducted a session in the parlour and received several intriguing responses that suggested possible intelligent interaction (as seen in the live recording). Kaz followed with a session on the second floor, which also produced notable responses—until the experience became intense enough to make her step away.
Alison conducted an Estes session in the attic. While I was not present for that session, it was reported that many of the responses had strong religious themes, adding another layer of interest to the overall investigation.
Final Thoughts
Is Spruce Lane Farmhouse haunted? Not in the traditional sense.
There does not appear to be evidence of trapped, lost, or stagnant energies. Instead, the activity suggests the presence of spirits—individuals who return to a place they once loved. These energies feel transient, coming and going rather than remaining bound to the location.
We experienced moments of what felt like intelligent communication, allowing for brief connections and potential validation of individuals tied to the property and its history.
Ultimately, Spruce Lane Farmhouse is a location that seems to operate on mutual respect. When approached with care and intention, it responds in kind. It is less a place of haunting, and more a place of quiet, ongoing presence—a home that is still, in some way, being visited.
Walking into the farmhouse felt like stepping directly back in time. The space was much larger than anticipated, and the lighting created an atmosphere that genuinely felt like entering a time machine. Each room carried such a strong sense of presence that it almost felt as though the Breckon family could appear at any moment, simply going about their daily lives.
There was a distinct watchful energy throughout the home—something aware of our presence and seemingly assessing our intentions. It didn’t feel threatening, but rather observant, as if deciding whether to engage or remain in the background.
The artifacts placed throughout the house contributed heavily to the sense that this was once a deeply lived-in home. Every object seemed to hold a story. That said, the headless mannequins scattered throughout would easily startle anyone in the dark, adding an unexpected edge to the environment. Despite that, even with the lights out, the farmhouse maintained a feeling of safety and calm.
Investigation Thoughts
The investigation itself started off slowly. It felt as though any potential spirits or energies were taking their time, “sniffing us out” and determining whether we were worth interacting with.
As the night progressed, we began to experience some activity. The REM pod registered a few interesting hits, while the Trip Wire and K2 meters showed occasional activations. The music box also went off at one point, though we are still unsure whether that was triggered by one of us or something external.
The most compelling moments came during the Estes Method sessions. I conducted a session in the parlour and received several intriguing responses that suggested possible intelligent interaction (as seen in the live recording). Kaz followed with a session on the second floor, which also produced notable responses—until the experience became intense enough to make her step away.
Alison conducted an Estes session in the attic. While I was not present for that session, it was reported that many of the responses had strong religious themes, adding another layer of interest to the overall investigation.
Final Thoughts
Is Spruce Lane Farmhouse haunted? Not in the traditional sense.
There does not appear to be evidence of trapped, lost, or stagnant energies. Instead, the activity suggests the presence of spirits—individuals who return to a place they once loved. These energies feel transient, coming and going rather than remaining bound to the location.
We experienced moments of what felt like intelligent communication, allowing for brief connections and potential validation of individuals tied to the property and its history.
Ultimately, Spruce Lane Farmhouse is a location that seems to operate on mutual respect. When approached with care and intention, it responds in kind. It is less a place of haunting, and more a place of quiet, ongoing presence—a home that is still, in some way, being visited.
Paula's Experience
Our team recently conducted a paranormal investigation at the Henry C. Breckon/Spruce Lane Farmhouse, located within Bronte Creek Provincial Park. This historic property, dating back to the late 19th century, is part of the park’s preserved heritage zone, reflecting early settler life in the region. The farmhouse and surrounding lands are tied to some of Oakville’s earliest farming families, with names like “Henry” and “Charles” connected to the property’s development and ownership over time.
During the investigation, I began by sweeping the home with a parabolic microphone; however, ambient noise levels made it difficult to capture clear audio. I also conducted a full walkthrough using an IR camera but did not observe any visual anomalies at that stage. Photographs were taken systematically in each room for later review.
Another team reported making contact with several spirits, though none were immediately identified as original residents of the home. Our ghost box sessions also produced multiple names, again not clearly tied to the known history of the farmhouse.
Activity increased significantly upstairs. In the back hallway, a REM-Pod began to activate and appeared to respond directly to verbal prompts. At the same time, Kaz, Cathy, Alison, and I experienced multiple K2 meter spikes. Ghost balls were triggered, and Spirit Talk devices generated consistent and active responses across several units.
One of the most intriguing areas was the front bedroom on the right side of the house, particularly the closet, where we sensed what could potentially be a portal or a concentrated energy point.
Throughout the Estes session, the name “Charles”—believed to be associated with early ownership of the land—was mentioned repeatedly. Notably, when Kaz asked for interaction, such as requesting the REM-Pod lights to activate, the device responded almost every time. We also received the name “Henry Breckon,” who is believed to have built the house.
Interestingly, we were told several times—through different devices—to go outside, with indications that a male presence was located there.
Overall, the investigation yielded strong interactive responses, intelligent communication, and possible ties to historical figures connected to the property.
During the investigation, I began by sweeping the home with a parabolic microphone; however, ambient noise levels made it difficult to capture clear audio. I also conducted a full walkthrough using an IR camera but did not observe any visual anomalies at that stage. Photographs were taken systematically in each room for later review.
Another team reported making contact with several spirits, though none were immediately identified as original residents of the home. Our ghost box sessions also produced multiple names, again not clearly tied to the known history of the farmhouse.
Activity increased significantly upstairs. In the back hallway, a REM-Pod began to activate and appeared to respond directly to verbal prompts. At the same time, Kaz, Cathy, Alison, and I experienced multiple K2 meter spikes. Ghost balls were triggered, and Spirit Talk devices generated consistent and active responses across several units.
One of the most intriguing areas was the front bedroom on the right side of the house, particularly the closet, where we sensed what could potentially be a portal or a concentrated energy point.
Throughout the Estes session, the name “Charles”—believed to be associated with early ownership of the land—was mentioned repeatedly. Notably, when Kaz asked for interaction, such as requesting the REM-Pod lights to activate, the device responded almost every time. We also received the name “Henry Breckon,” who is believed to have built the house.
Interestingly, we were told several times—through different devices—to go outside, with indications that a male presence was located there.
Overall, the investigation yielded strong interactive responses, intelligent communication, and possible ties to historical figures connected to the property.
Alison's Experience
As an intuitive member of The Paranormal Seekers, I’d been hearing from the home’s matriarch for about a week before the investigation. She was clear: she ran a tight ship, kept the house and family in top order, and was proud of the home she tended. I also connected with two male spirits—one with a strong “J” name and a mustache; the other stayed back but was present. As we pulled up to the first staff building to meet Andrew from the museum, I felt the home’s energy—curious but reserved, waiting for us.
When we arrived at Spruce Lane, I was in awe of the size of the house and the property around it. Andrew brought us in through the kitchen; after we set our bags and equipment down, we began to explore. A teammate and I stepped into the dining room/parlour and instantly straightened our posture—no slouching; we both felt the same prim-and-proper expectation. The house has been beautifully restored over years of ownership, lovingly furnished, and well cared for. We toured the entire home, including the third-floor attic—a huge space with windows overlooking the greenery and forest.
The spirits came alive as we set up our equipment and finalized our plan. I asked Andrew whether we had permission to go live (Rachel hadn’t asked), and he said yes. Rachel led an Estes session in the main-floor parlour, and we quickly realized several spirits wanted to engage. Charles came through prominently, insisting it was his land; thanks to Rachel’s research, we could connect him to the property. He interacted with our equipment on demand and answered questions through Rachel. Henry Breckon and his family also felt present, watching over the home and its perfect condition—both he and Margaret came through our equipment and apps.
Sitting quietly on the second floor, a teammate and I heard footsteps in the attic above us. We also had childlike engagement with our equipment—outside Dolly’s room, and the guest room the REM pods and spirit balls went off often, and when we cheered or asked them to do it again, they would.
At no point did anyone feel uncomfortable or scared. It’s a gorgeous home filled with Victorian-era artifacts and playful spirits. Would I say it’s haunted? Yes. The equipment responses, voices, and names felt relevant to the home, the original landowner, and the Breckon family who built it. But nothing felt evil or dark—only proud, engaging spirits still caring for their home and land.
When we arrived at Spruce Lane, I was in awe of the size of the house and the property around it. Andrew brought us in through the kitchen; after we set our bags and equipment down, we began to explore. A teammate and I stepped into the dining room/parlour and instantly straightened our posture—no slouching; we both felt the same prim-and-proper expectation. The house has been beautifully restored over years of ownership, lovingly furnished, and well cared for. We toured the entire home, including the third-floor attic—a huge space with windows overlooking the greenery and forest.
The spirits came alive as we set up our equipment and finalized our plan. I asked Andrew whether we had permission to go live (Rachel hadn’t asked), and he said yes. Rachel led an Estes session in the main-floor parlour, and we quickly realized several spirits wanted to engage. Charles came through prominently, insisting it was his land; thanks to Rachel’s research, we could connect him to the property. He interacted with our equipment on demand and answered questions through Rachel. Henry Breckon and his family also felt present, watching over the home and its perfect condition—both he and Margaret came through our equipment and apps.
Sitting quietly on the second floor, a teammate and I heard footsteps in the attic above us. We also had childlike engagement with our equipment—outside Dolly’s room, and the guest room the REM pods and spirit balls went off often, and when we cheered or asked them to do it again, they would.
At no point did anyone feel uncomfortable or scared. It’s a gorgeous home filled with Victorian-era artifacts and playful spirits. Would I say it’s haunted? Yes. The equipment responses, voices, and names felt relevant to the home, the original landowner, and the Breckon family who built it. But nothing felt evil or dark—only proud, engaging spirits still caring for their home and land.
Kaz's Experience
Initial Thought:s the building was spectacular. They don’t make them like that anymore. Nestled off the path of a widely used provincial park…amazing. The inside was incredible-although not original, it was redone in the 1970’s to replicate Victorian life, and boy did they do an incredible job. I was transported back to a time where elegance was the name of the game. The lower levels were stunning, the parlour room especially spoke to me. The upstairs seemed to keep going and going, and the attic was a big surprise regarding its spaciousness. The headless mannequins were an interesting touch-especially as I had written down in my premonition notes “headless man???” Haha
Investigation Thoughts: right away we had REM Pod activity in the parlour room. Despite there being a new battery, I changed it for another new one and we continued to get activity. The Estes session in the parlour room was very informative, with Charles coming through two devices (spirit talker app and through Rachel under Estes) he identified himself as being the land owner, which was correct. He also communicated on demand via the REM POD … amazing!
The upper levels weren’t as active (for me) but felt loving and as if spirits were there but preferred to observe than interact.
My Estes felt fine … until I had a very vivid image of one of the headless mannequins rushing at me … not cool.
After Thoughts: what a beautiful home and a privilege to investigate. Would like to go back and do some more experiments with isolated Estes and EVP sessions. All-in-all a great experience and I’d say there are certainly still some spirits floating around the building.
Investigation Thoughts: right away we had REM Pod activity in the parlour room. Despite there being a new battery, I changed it for another new one and we continued to get activity. The Estes session in the parlour room was very informative, with Charles coming through two devices (spirit talker app and through Rachel under Estes) he identified himself as being the land owner, which was correct. He also communicated on demand via the REM POD … amazing!
The upper levels weren’t as active (for me) but felt loving and as if spirits were there but preferred to observe than interact.
My Estes felt fine … until I had a very vivid image of one of the headless mannequins rushing at me … not cool.
After Thoughts: what a beautiful home and a privilege to investigate. Would like to go back and do some more experiments with isolated Estes and EVP sessions. All-in-all a great experience and I’d say there are certainly still some spirits floating around the building.
Cathy's Experience
Overall I found the house to be a bit quiet but mainly because it felt like we were the ones being observed. Most feelings of this came from the parlour but where doing the Estes Charles seem to answer on command with the REM pod when Kaz was asking questions. Upstairs, when Alison and I were sitting at top of the stairs, the only time the spirit ball went off was when we were talking about spirit observing us. The ball would go off. When we mentioned children. The ball lit up as well. This only happened a few times
The back hallway were the guest room was. The first room on the left and the back stairs case felt very heavy and off. Male energy and not happy we were there. This was confirmed with Kaz’s Estes method. When reviewing Kaz’s Estes method, the shadow man was mentioned. A few references. Kaz also near the end of the Estes kept feeling a presences beside her and was motioning with her hand. Then immediately took off the eye mask and backed up against the wall because she felt like the Mannequin was coming towards her.
When I sat at the top of the back staircase. It felt like I had been there for hours. But it was only about 10 min. I felt watched from behind. Nothing horrible, just watched.
Picked up on a woman in the kids room. But again watching.
Up in the attic, during Alison’s Estes - there was many references to religious beliefs. But when asked if they were we never got a response.
There is definitely more to the place.
Oh one more sensation - when I first walked into the dining area I immediately heard straighten up. And I corrected my posture.
The back hallway were the guest room was. The first room on the left and the back stairs case felt very heavy and off. Male energy and not happy we were there. This was confirmed with Kaz’s Estes method. When reviewing Kaz’s Estes method, the shadow man was mentioned. A few references. Kaz also near the end of the Estes kept feeling a presences beside her and was motioning with her hand. Then immediately took off the eye mask and backed up against the wall because she felt like the Mannequin was coming towards her.
When I sat at the top of the back staircase. It felt like I had been there for hours. But it was only about 10 min. I felt watched from behind. Nothing horrible, just watched.
Picked up on a woman in the kids room. But again watching.
Up in the attic, during Alison’s Estes - there was many references to religious beliefs. But when asked if they were we never got a response.
There is definitely more to the place.
Oh one more sensation - when I first walked into the dining area I immediately heard straighten up. And I corrected my posture.
Chantel's Experience
I really enjoyed investigating the spruce farmhouse. It was a beautiful home with some interesting spirits, Rachel and Kaz did the estes method in different parts of the house and we got completely different spirits wanting to communicate with us. I am looking forward to having the opportunity to investigate this location again the future.