West Hants Historical Society

The West Hants Historical Society is a Canadian nonprofit organization dedicated to collecting and preserving the historical heritage of Hants County, Nova Scotia. It operates with a registered charity status under the Business Registration Number 108200981RR0001.

Mission and Objectives

The mission of the West Hants Historical Society is to preserve, present, and promote the rich history of West Hants within the broader context of Nova Scotia and Canada. This is accomplished through various activities, including maintaining a museum, archives, and a genealogy department.

Museum and Archives

The society manages a seasonal museum, which showcases the cultural history of Hants County, focusing on household, industrial, and shipping technologies from past eras. The museum houses over 1,000 artifacts, providing insights into the region's historical significance. Additionally, the society maintains an extensive library and archives containing resources such as family histories, local newspapers, and historical documents.

Genealogy Department

The genealogy department offers year-round services, providing access to family histories, local newspapers, graveyard headstone inscriptions, school registrars, community histories, maps, and photographs. This department aids individuals in researching their family trees and exploring the local historical figures and sites.

Operations and Funding

The West Hants Historical Society operates primarily through volunteer efforts. Its financial support comes from grants, publishing activities, the research library, and fundraising initiatives. The organization is recognized by the Canada Revenue Agency as a registered charity, allowing it to issue tax receipts for donations.

Community Engagement

Beyond its museum and genealogy services, the society supports community engagement through summer guide services at the Fort Edward Blockhouse. Educational tours and bus tours are also available upon prior arrangement, promoting historical education and awareness. The society welcomes donations to support its mission and activities, contributing to the preservation of Hants County's history.