This house on the s.w. corner of Chilver and Niagara, was built in 1909 by architects John Watt & C. Howard Crane. Watt & Crane were only partners for two years, 1908-1909. Toward the end of 1909, John Watt had moved to London Ontario, where he remained active in architecture through 1940. Crane, partnered with local architect J.C. Pennington from 1909-1914, when he moved back to Detroit and eventually became known as one of the most prominent theatre architects in America.
Above is a postcard view courtesy of John Stefani. It shows the block of Chilver looking south from Niagara about 1915. The edge of 907 is visible at the extreme right side of the postcard.
The house was built by J. Wesley Petch, a local Walkerville “druggist” who had a chain of shops. One on Wyandotte and the other on Ottawa St. In 1920’s Walkerville, having a shop on each street, I suppose, covered the north and the south side of town.
I always liked that house. I never knew Crane designed it. Thanks.
Looks like the house has been kept in good condition. So nice to see. Actually, to me the scene in that postcard doesn’t look all that different than what we see today. Except now all those trees are more mature, of course.
Was Willistead still a private residence at this time?
I think E.C. Walker died in ’15, but not sure…. His wife lived there until the early twenties then moved back to the US.
Brendan, are you talking to yourself? 🙂
Yes it was still a private residence until Mrs. Walker moved out in 1921 and left it to the Town of Walkerville.
http://www.walkervilletimes.com/willistead.htm
Yes Andrew, I believe I was. Freshman year of University + lack of sleep make for a wonderful combination.
A good buddy of mine bourght this house 3 or 4 years ago, and has completely updated it while keeping it as close to original as humanly possible. It couldn’t be in better hands for a long and prosperous future. The next generations of Walkervillians are going to be happy he did so!