The Willowbank Estate is named for the magnificent willow trees that once graced its grounds. Exceptional historic architecture in the context of a picturesque landscape makes Willowbank a valuable cultural asset. 
 
Willowbank is an elegant example of the rural estates of the wealthy settlers of Upper Canada, and is considered one of the finest Classical Revival buildings in North America. The mansion was built for Alexander Hamilton, third son of the Honourable Robert Hamilton, one of the founders of Upper Canada. Designed by renowned master carpenter and architect John Latshaw and built of local whirlpool sandstone, the building is characterized by the rare feature of eight hand-carved columns running its full two-storey height, and by a front doorway considered to be a masterpiece of Greek Revival design. From the date of her husbands untimely death in 1839, Hannah Jarvis Hamilton displayed extraordinary effort and ingenuity in sustaining the Willowbank legacy. The estate supported the family and enabled them to maintain their social position.  In the 1930s the house was transferred to the Bright family, prominent in the development of the orchard and wine industries in Niagara. Construction of the Niagara Parkway led to the creation of a treed driveway providing access from the road. The orientation of the house switched from the east to the west, and interior changes were made to reflect a 20th century aesthetic. In 2002, with significant support from Tom and Mary (Bright) Urban and from heritage advocate Laura Dodson, the ownership of Willowbank passed to the Niagara-on-the-Lake Conservancy and its current era began. The Willowbank Estate is comprised of the buildings, grounds and artifacts that together constitute this National Historic Site. The Estate is an operating museum, open to visitors, researchers, and special-interest groups. It interprets the rich history of the site and celebrates the life of Hannah Jarvis Hamilton. It serves as a living laboratory for The School of Restoration Arts. It is an important venue for public education and dialogue in the area of conservation and cultural resource management. It is also available for appropriate community and private events, as a means to raise funds and