Dr. Frenette practiced medicine in Causapscal from 1905 to 1953. Having received his diploma from the University of Montreal in 1892, his career as a medical practitioner spanned 57 years.

When Dr. Frenette arrived in Causapscal, there was only one dirt road in the Gaspé Coast,
and this road was closed during the winter. The closest hospital was in Québec City. Because of the great distance from the city, country doctors where forced perform many roles, including that of surgeon and dentist, and even made their own medication. "The Frenette collection" of medical instruments, according to the heritage consulting firm of Bergeron-Gagnon, is one of the largest in Canada. Along with the material artfacts that he left behind, Dr. Frenette left a wealth of written documents. His correspondences with Laure Conan, Ernest Gagnon and his many note books of pœtry complement Dr. Frenette's collection.

Almost a hundred years ago Dr. Frenette established himself in Causapscal.
His memory is still alive today thanks to his children and grand-children who have preserved his legacy. An exposition entitled "Joseph Frenette: Country Doctor" was held in 1999. It enabled viewers to discover the fascinating world of a turn of the century medicine cabinet.