The Friends of Historic Fort Willow is currently undergoing an organizational restructuring. We look forward to collaborating with the working group in developing a new framework for the long term success of the group.
The Friends of Fort Willow are a volunteer group, operating under the Nottawasaga Valley Conservation Authority (NVCA).
Our goals include the preservation of the original site and its reconstructed features and the promotion of historical, educational and recreational activities which make respectful use of the site.
From about 1995 to 2009, a volunteer group known as the Fort Willow Improvement Group invested thousands of hours in rebuilding the site, quite literally from the ground up. Their work included locating and outlining the buildings identified in the 1955 archaeological dig, and constructing a palisade and defensive earthworks around the site. In addition they constructed information kiosks, erected signs and maintained a First Nations’ style "Three Sisters" garden inside the Fort.
The Friends of Historic Fort Willow became active at the site in 2010. Their role has been to provide historic interpretation and educational opportunities to students and adults alike. Planned weekend gatherings throughout the year by Friends of Fort Willow provide the general public a chance to mingle with members of this group while they immerse themselves into life as it was in the early 19th century.
In 2022, the Friends of Historic Fort Willow has shifted to a reenactor-based group, bringing history alive at the conservation area with demonstrations and informative displays.
We continue to introduce new initiatives and to maintain the site and are always looking for interested volunteers. If you would like to learn more about our work, please contact us.
The Friends of Fort Willow works in partnership with many local and regional groups in order to maintain the site and offer public programming. This support takes many forms - in-kind contributions, hands-on work, and financial support. Our thanks to all the partners, sponsors and supporters that make our work possible!
Thanks to:
Ongoing support of the Festival at Fort Willow: