One of Windsor's crown jewels will have support in preservation for years to come.
The City of Windsor announced Monday a $7.2-million commitment to restore and preserve Willistead Manor, a 19th-century mansion that stands in Olde Walkerville. The commitment is through 2032.
The package includes $1.6-million budgeted by the City for the house's rehabilitation effort in 2022. Work on the home next year will include foundation waterproofing, resurfacing the terrace of the adjacent Paul Martin Gardens, restoration of capstone work, replacing the cooling system, and exterior painting.
"Despite Willistead Manor being inaccessible for public events at this time, the City, the board, and the Friends of Willistead have been hard at work behind the scenes to preserve and enhance the home and the grounds," said Willistead Manor Inc. board chairman Douglas Sanborn. "Those of us love this building, its history, and the important role it plays in our community. We are honoured to help fundraise for its care and preservation, and we invite everyone who can to consider donating to the ongoing restoration of the manor."
Mayor Drew Dilkens said he is encouraged by the interest in preserving the manor and hopes it will soon be open for public functions again. The building has been closed to the general public since the COVID-19 pandemic took hold in March 2020.
"Over the last few years, we have experienced a renewed interest and sense of pride in Willistead Manor in our community," said Dilkens. "Though the pandemic has temporarily closed the doors of this facility, it is our hope to be able to reopen the doors to the public, to rentals and special events and programming as soon as it is safe to do so. In the interim, we have taken advantage of the opportunity to move forward with important infrastructure upgrades and restoration work to preserve this incredible historic gem in our community and continue to share the Willistead Manor story far and wide."
Projects scheduled through 2032 include restoring the perimeter fence, refurbishing the main entrance courtyard, repaving the parking lot, restoring the basement, and painting.
A documentary on Willistead Manor, produced by Suede Productions, will premiere in 2022. It will chronicle the story of Hiram Walker and his family, the development of Walkerville, and the home itself.
A mini-exhibit on the life of Walker is planned for display in the coach house, with a tentative opening next year as well.