RCAF Convalescent
Date: c1945
No. 4 R.C.A.F. Convalescent Hospital.
In 1943, the Royal Canadian Air Force (R.C.A.F.) began preparing medical reconditioning programs for personnel returning from conflict in Europe during WWII. With the help of a group of community-minded Canadians - Wartime Convalescent Homes Incorporated - private buildings were purchased or donated for use as convalescent facilities. The W. Pitfield property located in Cartierville in North Montreal was one of these. The average length of stay at convalescent facilities overall was only 38 days. However, patients with psychological disorders and orthopaedic ailments tended to stay longer. Treatment included exercise, competitive sport, and the practice of arts and crafts. The need for the service diminished as the war came to an end and the Pitfield property closed in late 1945.