What's a Walkerville? And how it all began...

Walkerville Ontario, Canada is where i live. Incorporated in 1890, the town was founded by Hiram Walker, owner and producer of Canadian Club Whisky.

Walker planned it as a 'model town’ (originally called 'Walker's Town') that would be the envy of both the region and the continent. He established a distillery on the Detroit River (seen at right), diversifying the business by growing grain, milling flour, and raising cattle and hogs. Later, the town supported other major industries, notably automotive manufacturing.

Walker established homes for his workers throughout the community, including Monmouth Rd, (the street i live on - pictured below).

He also built a church dedicated to his late wife, and a school. Many of the buildings were designed by Albert Kahn, notably Willistead Manor (this is where i got married), the home of Walker's second son, Edward Chandler Walker. The Manor became a heritage-protected property owned by the city, which is used as an art gallery or to hold a function today.

The neighbourhood is characterized by large houses, wide streets and abundant greenery. Other structures include former Canadian Prime Minister Paul Martin's home, Khan-designed houses, the distillery and the Via Rail station.

I've lived within this community since 2003, and have had many great experiences. Each week i'll report on an experience. Feel free to share yours....