What would have been Hiram Walker's 200th birthday isn't actually until Monday, but residents will be celebrating one of Windsor's industrial architects this weekend.
The Walkerville Business Improvement Association is presenting a two-day celebration starting Friday, July 1. Streets in the Walkerville area will be closed to traffic for extended patios and sidewalk sales. There will be tours at the Canadian Club Brand Centre and Willistead Manor, the historic home of Hiram Walker.
On Saturday, Mayor Drew Dilkens will make a special announcement at The Walkerville Brewery to commemorate Walker and make a toast to his contributions to the City of Windsor.
"The City of Windsor has a tradition of celebrating its rich history and heritage, and highlighting the stories that make our city so unique," says Dilkens. "Hiram Walker made a name for himself, and left a lasting legacy through his career, his charitable donations, and his dedication to this area."
City council has proclaimed Monday "Hiram Walker Day".
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The Chimczuk Museum has partnered with The Canadian Club Brand Centre and The Walkerville Times to present "Hiram Walker 200", a temporary exhibit showcasing Walker's story through photographs and artifacts from his professional and personal life. The exhibit runs July 1 through August 31.