Heritage Locations

Interest in Penetanguishene began with Champlain’s landing in 1615, but settlement did not begin until the navy established their base. The War of 1812 and transfer of Drummond Island to the Americans caused the new naval base to locate in the well protected harbour of Penetanguishene. Fur traders, voyageurs, officers and their families, and others were attracted. Further settlement was prompted by the arrival of many Quebec families, attracted by inexpensive, available land. Penetanguishene met her boom era shortly before and after the turn of the century. The vast timber resources and convenient harbour brought such names as Beck, McGibbon, Gropp, Tessier and Firstbrook. The ample employment induced more settlers. Today, Penetanguishene has a rich heritage of cultures, people and built environment. Heritage Penetanguishene would like to acknowledge our past, present and future through a selected guide to our built environment. All the structures included in this brochure represent glimpses of our 19th and early 20th century heritage.