About Us

Ontario's Leading Marine Heritage Site

Discovery Harbour traces its roots back to the original Penetanguishene British naval and military base built as a result of the War of 1812 to safeguard access to Upper Canada. Originally titled "His Majesty's Naval Establishment on Lake Huron", the base was an important strategic location to keep ships in a state of readiness and to supply British posts to the northwest. By 1820 the establishment was home to over 70 people, including sailors, officers, shipwrights, and soldiers. Five large ships, fifteen smaller vessels, and numerous workshops and dwellings were constructed. 

The relocation of a British garrison on Drummond Island introduced a military component to the Penetanguishene base in 1828 and by 1834 Canada was defended exclusively by these forces. An impressive stone Officers' Quarters was built in 1845 and the Military occupied the site until 1856. For more detailed historical information click here.

Today Discovery Harbour is a picturesque historic site situated on beautiful Penetanguishene Bay.  Throughout the summer visitors can enjoy fun and interactive daily activities and tours. Discovery Harbour is also the homeport to the historic replica ships H.M.S. Bee and H.M.S. Tecumseth.  The on-location King's Wharf Theatre offers great summer shows and diverse entertainment throughout the year.  Fine dining can be enjoyed in Discovery Harbour's beautiful waterside restaurant Captain Roberts' Table, and impressive shoreline boardwalks provide the perfect place to watch an evening sunset overlooking Penetanguishene Bay.

Discovery Harbour is one of two significant sites that comprise Huronia Historical Parks.  Our other historic site, Sainte-Marie among the Hurons, was the 17th century  headquarters for the French Jesuit mission to the Huron nation and was Ontario's first European community.
 

| Home (alt+0) | About Us (alt+1) | Rates & Programs (alt+2) | Education Programs (alt+3) | Group Tours (alt+4) | Special Events (alt+5) | Theatre/Food/Retail (alt+6) | Media Releases (alt+7) | Vessels (alt+8) | Employment & Volunteer (alt+9) | Location (alt+l) | Historical Information (alt+h) |

| Text Version |

Questions or Comments
© 2000-2010 Discovery Harbour. All rights reserved.