Bytown Museum

Women’s Canadian Historical Society of Ottawa was formed

Jun 12, 1898

After a considerable talk among the ladies about the preservation of Ottawa’s rich cultural heritage, the Women’s Canadian Historical Society of Ottawa was formed in June of 1898. With the motto of “Love Thou Thy Land” their goal was to encourage the collection and preservation of Canadian historical records and artifacts and to foster Canadian loyalty and patriotism.

Bytown Historical Museum

Oct 25, 1917

The former City Registry Office, located at 70 Nicholas Street, was obtained and renamed the Bytown Historical Museum. The Museum was opened on October 25, 1917 by Mayor Harold Fisher as a museum for artifacts and souvenirs.

Bytown Museum Opening

Jun 27, 1952

After years of collecting, the WCHSO was once again on the lookout for a larger location. In 1948 the Commissariat (office) at the Ottawa Locks was proposed. Significant funds were raised to make repairs to the building and they took possession of the building in September of 1951. The Bytown Museum opened its doors in the Commissariat (present location) on June 27, 1952.

Historical Society of Ottawa

Jan 1, 1980

The Society opened its membership to men and changed its name to the Historical Society of Ottawa in 1956. The 1980s was a time of exciting growth for the HSO, first with the opening publication of the Bytown Pamphlet Series, and the complete renovation and restoration of the Commissariat between 1982 and 1984. When the Museum reopened in 1985 Bytown Museum showcased artifacts and recent acquisitions including some of their most iconic pieces.