Stepping into the Thomas Bunn House feels like entering a living museum. The moment you cross the threshold, you can feel the history surrounding you, its walls holding the stories and spirit of Manitoba’s early days.

A home rich in heritage

This stately stone home has been standing since 1862, when it was built by stonemason Samuel Taylor for Métis farmer Thomas Bunn. It was the fulfilment of Thomas’s promise to his wife that they would live on higher ground to escape the Red River’s notorious spring floods.

In its early years, the home was a well-known and highly visible local landmark.

Over time, this historic home has been owned by:

The Bunn family from 1862–1937 (75 years)
The Montague family from 1937–1944
The Stewart family from 1944 to present (80+ years)

History lives on

In 1937, Ray Montague purchased the Thomas Bunn House as a summer residence and recognized its importance to Manitoba’s heritage. His family devoted considerable effort to renovations and repairs, honouring its historic character while also adding some modern conveniences.

Since the Stewart family acquired the house in 1944, they’ve dedicated more than 80 years to preserving and caring for the home for future generations.

In recognition of its historical and cultural significance, the building and property were designated a heritage site by the Province of Manitoba in 1992.

Who was Thomas Bunn?

Thomas Bunn photo in Manitoba heritage site.

One of the early pioneers of St. Clements, Manitoba, Thomas Bunn devoted much of his life to shaping the development of this part of the Red River North Settlement.

A farmer by occupation, he later turned his attention to politics. He was a member of Louis Riel’s Provisional Government and represented the district in the first provincial legislature of 1870.

Read more about Bunn on the Manitoba Historical Society website.

Experience a piece of Manitoba history

From the outside, the Thomas Bunn House looks essentially as it did in 1862. Lovingly maintained by the Stewart family since 1944, the house now operates as a B&B, offering guests the opportunity to experience and share in this living piece of heritage.

The home is full of authentic artifacts for guests to appreciate, along with a well-curated library featuring books on the local area and its history.

Whether you’re planning a weekend escape or fishing trip, or hoping to relive a part of the heritage of a Red River Métis family, your stay here promises to be memorable!

Book your stay