Drake House: A Resettlement Story

Drake House, located in Arnold's Cove, Newfoundland, offers a poignant glimpse into the province's past, particularly the resettlement era. Built in the 1890s in Haystack, Placentia Bay, by George and John Drake, the house was home to George's son, Frank, who famously resisted resettlement. In 1969, he had the house barged to Arnold's Cove, marking the end of Haystack's permanent settlement. Today, Drake House stands as a historical interpretation center and community museum. It showcases late 19th-century outport vernacular architecture, featuring a Georgian central hall plan, decorative woodwork, and a tar paper roof. Inside, visitors can explore well-preserved interiors, including a fine central staircase, unpainted wood trim, and original furnishings that evoke the period. The museum's exhibits reflect the cultural heritage and historical significance of the area, highlighting the lives of early settlers and the community's evolution. Through artifacts, photographs, and documents, Drake House tells the story of Newfoundland's resettlement, offering insights into the traditions, challenges, and triumphs of its people. It is a Registered Heritage Structure, symbolizing a significant chapter in Newfoundland's history.