Welcome to the Nanaimo Historical Society

Growing alongside our community since 1953.

The Nanaimo Historical Society recognizes that over the thousands of years people have lived in the Nanaimo area, many communities have contributed to the development of our present city. We invite you to join us in researching and developing projects that record and celebrate our long and diverse history.

Learn About Us
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upcoming MEETINGS & EVENTS

NEW! September Program Announcement!

Click here for details

Steve is finishing up his thesis for his honours accreditation. The presentation will discuss the process of undertaking a history project of this scale, and give a sense of the trials and tribula.png

Recent articles & presentations

2024 Ethel Barraclough Winning Essay
Mar 25, 2025
2024 Peggy Nichols Winning Essay
Mar 24, 2025
2023 Ethel Barraclough Winning Essay
Mar 27, 2024

LEYNARD LEGACY GRANTS

In 2024, the NHS will welcome funding applications from individuals and organizations based in the Nanaimo area. If you have an innovative idea for telling a story about a person, place, event or a natural history topic relating to our city, we are interested in hearing from you!

Program Details
We acknowledge that we meet on the traditional territory of the Snuneymuxw people from whom Nanaimo takes its name.