Description of Historic Place

Bentley House, situated amongst mature trees and set back from the road, is prominently located in the historic village of Brougham. It is a well-proportioned, two-storey, brick structure in the Italianate style. It is distinguished by a hipped roof, crowned by a splendid belvedere, and accented by a prominent columned porch. The designation is confined to the footprint of the building.

Heritage Value

Bentley House is a Recognized Federal Heritage Building because of its historical associations, and its architectural and environmental values.

Historical Value:
Bentley House is associated with the growth of Upper Canada after the War of 1812 and the attendant development of surrounding towns. One of the community’s founders, William Bentley, immigrated to Pickering township from New York State in 1829. His brothers joined him in establishing a family store and a patent medicine factory which served the surrounding area and helped the village flourish. Bentley House represents the heyday of the village.

Architectural Value:
Bentley House is a very good example of an Italianate villa as evidenced by the combination of Renaissance massing and the picturesque expression of its materials and detailing. It is also distinguished by its good functional design, good quality materials and craftsmanship.

Environmental Value:
Bentley House establishes the present historic character of Brougham village and is familiar to those in the neighbourhood, using Highway 7 and Brock Road.

Sources: Leslie Maitland, Bentley House, 272 Brock Road, Brougham, Ontario, Federal Heritage Buildings Review Office Report 91-163; Bentley House, 272 Brock Road, Brougham, Ontario Heritage Character Statement 91-163.

Character-Defining Elements

The character-defining elements of Bentley House should be respected.

Its Italianate style and good quality materials and craftsmanship, as evidenced in:
-the two-storey massing that is five bays wide;
-the hipped roof with deep, bracketed eaves;
-the belvedere crowning the house with glazed, arched openings and bracketed roof;
-the exterior walls of red brick with contrasting pale brick for window trim and corner quoins;
-the centre door accentuated by a delicate porch, supported by delicate Italian colonnettes;
-the interior decorative features such as mouldings and fireplace surrounds.

The manner in which the Bentley House establishes the rural character of Brougham village and is a familiar local landmark, as evidenced by:
-its prominent location at the heart of the historic village.