Waverley Place, a historic home-turned-museum in downtown Bowmanville, is welcoming the community to rediscover a local treasure following a $500,000 restoration project aimed at preserving its architectural heritage while improving accessibility.
The latest phase of restoration focused on maintaining the character of the 19th-century building while making the site more inclusive. Upgrades were carefully planned from the porch to surrounding pathways, striking a balance between historic integrity and modern accessibility needs.
“Waverley Place is a standout landmark in downtown Bowmanville,” said Clarington Mayor Adrian Foster. “This restoration was completed with great care to protect its heritage character, while ensuring more people can enjoy the veranda and grounds as Clarington continues to grow.”
The project was guided by Clarington’s Heritage Committee and Accessibility Advisory Committee to ensure community values were reflected while honouring the building’s original design. Completed work included the recreation of porch columns inspired by 19th-century designs, the use of durable Accoya wood for handrails and spindles, rebuilt chimneys using heritage-matched materials, interior ceiling repairs that preserved original plasterwork, and the restoration of exterior storm windows.
Additional restoration work is planned for 2026, including replacing the veranda light fixture, repairing woodwork above the porch columns, and installing new cedar shingles on the north porch roof.
“The completion of this phase marks an important milestone,” said Tenzin Shomar, Chair of the Clarington Public Library Board. “Preserving the building’s architecture while improving accessibility ensures Waverley Place remains a living historical site for tours, programs, and special events.”
Built in 1847 by David Fisher and later home to the Jury family, Waverley Place is one of Bowmanville’s oldest brick homes, featuring Regency and Italianate architectural styles. Today, it offers visitors a glimpse into life between 1901 and 1930 and continues to serve the community through programs, rentals, and heritage education as part of Clarington Library, Museums & Archives.
Photo Credits : Durham Post
