What is the Knaut-Rhuland House Museum, and why is it important?

Knaut-Rhuland House Museum is one of Lunenburg's most significant historic properties. The museum represents the first 150 years of residential life in our community and is the oldest house open to the public. It is a National Historic Site of Canada, a Nova Scotia Provincial Heritage Site and is in the heart of Lunenburg's UNESCO World Heritage Site. It offers a rare and tangible connection to the 1753 settlement of Lunenburg and the generations who shaped the town's character. Knaut-Rhuland House Museum has been owned and operated by Lunenburg Heritage Society for 26 years..

Will the restoration preserve the building's original materials and character?

Yes. Wherever possible, original materials will be conserved and repaired rather than replaced. When replacement is necessary, materials and techniques consistent with the building's historic character will be used and, wherever possible, materials will be sourced locally.

Why is this restoration project needed now?

The exterior of Knaut-Rhuland House has reached a point where preservation work can no longer be deferred. For many years, members of the community have expressed a strong desire to see the building repaired and restored. This campaign responds to that shared concern and ensures the structure is protected before further deterioration occurs. Unlike most of the building stock of Lunenburg, this circa 1793 house is highly original inside and out.

What work is being done in 2026?

This project is for the restoration, repair, and painting of the wooden clapboard and trim, using traditional means and methods. The exterior will be painted with linseed oil paint, in period appropriate colours. The six-over-six double sash windows will be fully restored. The original and highly detailed front door assembly, including the door, sidelights, fanlight, and associated trim will be meticulously restored, preserved and painted.

Work will address deterioration, ensure structural integrity, and restore the building's historic appearance. This work will result in a painted and restored house that will ensure that the building will be here for future generations to enjoy and explore.

Other exterior projects include an accessibility assessment, landscaping and garden, and replacement stairs at the rear of the house.

What work has been done in prior years?

Since 2021, when the Knaut-Rhuland House Renewal Project started, we have restored the front facade wooden sash windows; repaired and repainted the failed section of the interior stone foundation and repaired basement stairs, floor joists, and roof trusses; repaired and repainted the exterior stone foundation; installed a drainage system that connects with the Town of Lunenburg's stormwater system; had an exterior paint analysis conducted by the Canadian Conservation Institute; and upgraded the electrical system. Details of the renewal progress are on our website.

When will work start and when will it be completed?

Restoration work began in April 2026 with detailed ground-level inspections by the contractor and consultations with Parks Canada, our architect, and the Town of Lunenburg's Heritage Officer. Painting is expected to finish in October 2026, window work by March 2027, and landscaping and construction of a rear entry in 2027.

Will the museum remain open during the restoration period?

Most of the work will be carried out away from the museum's main entrance. With safety in mind, there may be temporary adjustments to opening hours depending on construction needs. Updates will be provided through Google search in advance of any changes.

How does this project support Lunenburg's heritage and identity?

Lunenburg's identity is inseparable from its built heritage. Restoring Knaut­ Rhuland House helps preserve the authenticity of the town's historic landscape and reinforces the community's deep connection to its past settlement by the Foreign Protestants and stories of their descendants. This restoration project ensures that future generations can continue to experience and learn Lunenburg's story.

How will this restoration benefit the Lunenburg community?

The project conserves an irreplaceable historic asset, contributes to the town's visual character, and supports cultural tourism. It demonstrates the community's commitment to safeguarding its shared heritage and heritage trades and skills.

By restoring a well-known and valued architectural landmark, the project reinforces a sense of collective stewardship and pride. It creates renewed opportunities for residents and visitors to engage with and learn Lunenburg's history.

What is the cost?

$250,000 is the budget of restoring the house's historic appearance and conservation of exterior wood elements, including repairs, stabilization, and painting. It is based on Lunenburg Heritage Society's application to Parks Canada's National Cost Sharing Program, which is projected to pay for 50%. An additional $50,000 is earmarked for the other exterior projects, including an accessibility assessment, landscaping and garden, and replacement stairs at the rear of the house.

Why are the costs so high?

Heritage conservation work differs significantly from standard residential painting. Before any paint is applied, extensive preparation is required, including careful assessment, repair of deteriorated wood, and use of historically appropriate materials and methods. The goal is not only appearance, but long­ term preservation of the structure. This level of care, along with specialized labour, contributes to the overall cost.

The house will be painted with Linseed oil paint. This is a traditional coating made from flax seeds that has long-protected wood and metal on historic buildings. In preservation work, it is often preferred to modern, plastic-based paints which can speed deterioration.

Linseed oil soaks into wood, protects it from within, and does not peel or flake like modern paint, so maintenance is easier and repainting needs little scraping or sanding. Although it costs more upfront, it covers more area and has a similar cost per square foot to acrylic paint. Over 15 to 20 years, it is cost effective because it avoids the labour and materials needed for scraping, priming, and repainting.

What colour will the house be?

Paint colours selected for Knaut-Rhuland House will be based on colours commonly used in Nova Scotia during the Colonial and Victorian eras, together with findings from the 2024 paint analysis of Knaut-Rhuland House by the Canadian Conservation Institute. More details about the colour scheme will be shared as the project progresses.

What is the fundraising goal?

The campaign goal is $150,000 by the end of 2026. This includes the required matching for Parks Canada's National Cost Sharing Program. Funds raised will also cover expenses associated with other exterior projects, including an accessibility assessment, landscaping and garden, and replacement stairs at the rear of the house. You can direct your contribution to any of these projects.

Does the Lunenburg Heritage Society have charitable status, and are donations tax-deductible?

Yes. The Lunenburg Heritage Society is a registered Canadian charity, and all donations will receive official Canadian tax receipts. If you are a US taxpayer, it is possible based on US-Canadian tax treaties, to use a Canadian charitable receipt to the extent you have Canadian income on your US tax return; we recommend you check your situation with your accountant. CRA tax number: 119025815RR0001

Are there opportunities for my donation to be matched so it goes further?

Do you or someone you know work for a major Canadian or US company? Benevity is an organization where major corporations like RBC, Apple and Google match their employees' charitable donations. Lunenburg Heritage Society receives donations this way. If you work for a major corporation, please check your corporate access to the Benevity to explore increasing your donation.

How can I donate?

• Online | Complete online form (above)
• Mail | Download and complete the RISE for Knaut-Rhuland Campaign Donation form. Mail to: Lunenburg Heritage Society, PO Box 674, Lunenburg B0J 2C0
• In person | Download and complete the RISE for Knaut-Rhuland Campaign Donation form. Drop off at Knaut-Rhuland House Museum, 125 Pelham Street, Lunenburg (during operating hours May's Victoria Day weekend to September 30)
• Securities Transfers | Please email lunenburgheritagesociety@hotmail.com to arrange

If you wish to discuss your donation with us, please email lunenburgheritagesociety@hotmail.com or phone 902-634-3498 and a committee member will get back to you.

Who are the professionals and experts involved?

The project engages qualified heritage professionals, including conservation specialists and skilled tradespeople experienced in working with historic structures. Their expertise ensures the work is carried out with care, accuracy, and respect for the building's significance.

Greg Munn of Munn Architecture Inc., Murray River, PEI is an AAPEI, AANB, NSAA, CAHP, ROAC registered architect who has been working in the field of architecture for over 30 years and with the Lunenburg Heritage Society since the 2021 condition assessment of the house. His experience has covered a broad range of design project types, including historic preservation, restoration, rehabilitation, renovation, new construction, and construction management.

Kate Richardson of Harkeners Mercantile Ltd., Rhodes Corner, NS. Harkeners is a restoration specialist with a mandate to foster and grow knowledge of traditional skills and materials, and sharing this passion with other likeminded tradespeople, heritage enthusiasts and alternative builders and designers.

Heritage Standing Inc., Fredericton, NB provides structural engineering advice exclusively for historic buildings and has worked with Lunenburg Heritage Society since 2021. The principal engineer and founder of the company, Dr. Tom Morrison, is recognized by multiple international conservation organizations for his application of engineering to building conservation projects.

How can I stay informed and engaged throughout the campaign?

Ongoing progress and photos about the campaign and renewal work will be communicated through the Lunenburg Heritage Society and Knaut-Rhuland House Museum social media accounts. Lunenburg Heritage Society will send regular updates on fundraising progress and restoration work by email directly to donors and members. Please join our society and follow our project's progress.

Facebook: Lunenburg Heritage Society I Knaut-Rhuland House Museum

lnstagram: @knautrhuland

If you have further questions, please ask us at lunenburgheritagesociety@hotmail.com

Useful Links:

The Standards and Guidelines for the Conservation of Historic Places in Canada