Improvements and infrastructure

Conserved and protected for future generations 

Bethune Memorial House is a beautiful, carpenter-gothic church manse. Recent restoration work has helped ensure that this important historic site is conserved and protected for future generations. The house was purchased by the Government of Canada in the fall of 1973 to be restored into the historic site commemorating Dr. Norman Bethune at his birthplace in Gravenhurst, Ontario. As part of Parks Canada’s maintenance program for historic buildings, the home has undergone the largest exterior project on the house since the original, mid-1970s restoration project.

Parks Canada maintains the historic house as it was when Dr. Bethune was born here in 1890. The details presented are the result of many hours of research into the colours, materials and decorative details of the structure. Exterior paint colours, for example, were determined by taking paint samples, and examining them under an electron microscope. Historic photographs and interviews with local residents helped to guide decisions in creating an authentic portrayal of an 1890 small-town manse.

The restoration project combined the latest knowledge and techniques in structural maintenance, along with traditional material and workmanship. In fact, this was only the third cedar roof installed on the house in 50 years which attests to the durability of a well-engineered, traditional roof. And unlike how roofs were mounted in 1880, when the house was built, this one also received the benefits of modern underlayment and fasteners, to maximize its lifespan.

The stone foundation has been repaired with areas of mortar replacement and support, to compensate for settling over the 144 years since its construction. Water drainage has also been improved to reduce deterioration of the foundation, and climate controls were integrated to control temperature and moisture. Together, these improvements strengthened the house’s resilience while preserving its historic integrity. 

Plan your visit: Find opening hours and seasonal information for Bethune Memorial House.

Book a private guided tour: Learn more about the life and work of Norman Bethune.