What is the HSO blog?

The aim of this blog is to promote research that is in line with the Society’s objective of “preserving and increasing public knowledge of the history of Ottawa, including its people and places.” This platform exists as a space for historians, heritage professionals, and members of the public who are interested in the showcasing their research (at any stage) on aspects of Ottawa’s history.

What we are looking for

This blog is open to any research that explores the history of the Ottawa area. We are particularly interested in hearing from members of historically under-represented communities or those who are researching historically under-represented communities (e.g. BIPOC, 2SLGBTQI+ and persons with disabilities).

Author guidelines

Blog posts should be between 500-1000 words, written in an accessible and conversational style, with endnotes following Chicago Manual of Style citation conventions.

If possible, the post should include one to two images which are copyright free (e.g., from Wikimedia commons) or for which you have permission to use, with appropriate caption and credit information.

Your submission must include a brief biography of yourself to be included with your post (50-150 words).

Lastly, ensure that your submission file is a Microsoft Word or Google Doc file, as only these file types will be accepted.

The blog is currently run by Kirsten Widdes and Scheherazade Kahn. If you are interested in writing for us, please get in touch with managing editor Kirsten Widdes by emailing This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..