Bethune Memorial House National Historic Site

Bethune Memorial House, a National Historic Site in Gravenhurst, Ontario, was built in 1880 and today welcomes tens of thousands of visitors each year. Under the care of Parks Canada, the beloved museum required urgent exterior conservation to address decades of wear — from rotting wood windows and deteriorating siding to failing chimneys, masonry foundations, and a cedar-shingle roof in need of replacement. Our team began with detailed investigations, including thermography and paint analysis, to guide a preservation approach that would respect the building’s heritage while extending its life for generations to come.

Working while the museum remained open, we restored or replaced each exterior element with precision — from Dutchman wood repairs and meticulous repainting to chimney reconstruction, masonry repointing, and the installation of a new cedar-shingle roof. Sensitive artefacts inside demanded strict environmental controls, leading to the integration of UV-filtering window films and carefully staged work. The result is a revitalized landmark that retains its historic character, crafted with techniques and materials that honour its past while safeguarding its future.