More than $260,000 in combined donations were recognized this week in support of restoration, preservation, and historical interpretation at Willistead Manor.
Windsor Mayor Drew Dilkens joined members of council, community partners, and descendants of Hiram Walker to celebrate contributions benefiting the historic Walkerville landmark.
"These combined contributions are fueling incredible growth and engagement at Willistead Manor. The City and Council thank our partners and supporters for their ongoing and valued contributions, and we look forward to celebrating the exhibition expansion and the legacy of Hiram Walker in July of this year," said Dilkens.
Among the largest donations was $91,346 from the Rotary Club of Windsor, the Charleigh Charitable Trust contributed $25,000 as part of a $100,000 multi-year pledge from Walker family descendants, while Martha Henkel, a great-great granddaughter of Hiram Walker, presented $15,000 toward a $50,000 commitment. The Friends of Willistead pledged $5,000, and Art Windsor-Essex formalized a donation of artwork and historic furnishings valued at nearly $50,000.
A significant new gift was also announced from the estate of the late Art Jahns, a longtime local historian and former Hiram Walker & Sons employee. His extensive collection of artifacts and archival materials will be a major expansion of the on-site Coach House Historical Exhibition.
During 2026 budget deliberations, City of Windsor council approved $400,000 for the expansion project, which will extend the exhibition beyond Studio A to include additional gallery and display space. Restoration work is already underway.
The City also announced plans for a July 4, 2026, celebration marking the 210th birthday of Hiram Walker, which will include the grand reopening of the expanded exhibition and a themed fundraising event at the manor.
Capping off the event, the Coach House Historical Exhibition received the Kulisek Prize from the University of Windsor, recognizing excellence in local heritage preservation.
City officials say the latest investments and expansion plans reinforce an ongoing commitment to preserving one of Windsor’s most treasured historic sites.
