the federal government took possession of the property, so that the 22-room structure could function as the Royal Canadian Air Force Officers' Mess for the neighboring seaplane base at Jericho Beach. For its purchase, together with of land, the Spencer family received a sum of $94,466.00. The structure suffered several damages during the war times, with a fire destroying the roof and the attic being severely damaged in 1943. However, the collaborative effort of the Fire Department and officers assisted in the aversion of additional destruction. During this period, funds were allocated to modernize Aberthau's plumbing systems, restore the ruined upper stories, particularly in the north-west corner, and to underpin and strengthen the mansion's foundations. With the military forces vacating in the spring of 1972, the city of Vancouver, having merged with Point Grey decades before, obtained legal ownership the building when the nearby Jericho Beach was given to the municipality by the federal government. With Aberthau House being turned over to the Board of Parks and Recreation for the provision of intern space of the 'West Point Grey Recreation Project,' it was also recognized for its potential as a cultural and recreation centre. Further renovations and alterations were required, and in October 1973, City Council reserved $75,000 for this purpose. An additional sum of $25,000 provided by the Province's 'Recreation Facilities Fund,' was also collected. A year later, with programming starting in September 1974, the newly refurbished cultural and recreation centre officially opened on 16 November by Commissioner May Brown. Current: West Point Grey Community Centre Since 1974, the Tudorbethan-styled Aberthau House has served, in conjunction with other facilities, as a recreational centre, offering a broad range of activities and programs for Vancouver residents of all ages. Creative art courses, dancing lessons, language programs, and music instruction are among the many selections that constitute its offerings. The community centre is jointly operated by both the city's Board of Parks and Recreation and the West Point Grey Community Association. The roomy chambers of the Aberthau House render it a popular venue for various social events. Available for rental, the large mansion may operate as the location for wedding receptions, parties, workshops, meetings, staff retreats, memorial services, piano recitals, and other social gatherings. The heritage site also presents several annual seasonal events, such as autumn's haunted house, winter's 'Breakfast with Santa, and spring's 'Family Easter.' The adjacent building, originally a coach