The Ernst Family

The Ernst Greenhouse property originally belonged to a surveyor (McNut) for Oakland County in the 1850s. The property changed hands over the years until the Ernst family purchased the property in the 1930s during the Great Depression.
 
Stephan Ernst Sr. immigrated to the United States from Germany, seeking opportunities to farm. Once established, Stephan Sr. sent for his family. 
 
Stephan Ernst Jr., the patriarch of the Ernst family, was only seven when he arrived in America. He now lives adjacent to the greenhouse property. He had three sons, Eric, Jeff and Stephan III.  Jeff’s two sons, Ryan and Jacob, are still involved with the greenhouse operations.

The area was less developed in the 1930s and did not include a greenhouse facility. At that time, facilities on the property included a barn, garage and white farmhouse. The rest of the land featured farm land, fields, woods and wetlands. Most of the open space on the property was used to harvest corn, beans, berries and fruit trees.

Descendents of German farmers, the Ernsts knew the value of the land for the production of food. The open fields provided sustenance for the family, as well as a business opportunity. 

The Family Business

The Ernst farm was self-sufficient and surplus produce was sold. It was known best for sweet corn and later began supplying other vegetables and eggs. Flowers on the farm were planted solely for family enjoyment.   

In the 1940s, the first greenhouse was built on the property. Most of the flowers grown in the original structure were for personal use. Later, the Ernst family realized the value in selling their production of flowers.

During 1970s – 80s, a gardening trend emerged; which benefited the greenhouse facility as the Ernst geraniums quickly became a popular selling item. The Ernst Greenhouse became a well-known destination for local gardeners who were looking for healthy plants and great blooms.

The Parks System

The Ernst family owned most of what is now Waterford Oaks County Park. Oakland County Parks and Recreation acquired the property in the early 1970s.

In fall 2009, the remaining Ernst property and greenhouse facility was incorporated into the 13-parks system.

As a part of the parks system, the greenhouse facility will support educational services, community-oriented activities and partnerships that would not have been possible by private ownership.