Originally this property belonged to the Ingledew family. In 1907 the Toronto City Mission purchased the property and used it as a summer camp for inner city children. The Toronto City Mission's cause was to provide a summer respite in a green space for children of underprivileged families. Children were accompanied by their mothers while the fathers stayed behind to work in the city Monday to Saturday but were able to visit on Sundays.

A play area held swings, sandboxes and see-saws. The main attraction for the children was Bronte Beach. The Bronte Fresh Air Home operated until about 1971. The Toronto City Mission still carries on important charitable work among Toronto families today. While the Fresh Air Home no longer exists in Bronte, the Toronto City Mission still provides assistance to Toronto families.