{"id":14727,"date":"2025-01-15T09:19:59","date_gmt":"2025-01-15T14:19:59","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/iottawa.net\/?p=14727"},"modified":"2025-01-15T09:20:10","modified_gmt":"2025-01-15T14:20:10","slug":"ontario-historical-society","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/iottawa.net\/en\/eternal-ontario-historical-society","title":{"rendered":"Ontario Historical Society"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Ontario Historical Society (OHS) is the province&#8217;s most prominent historical organization. Initially known as the Pioneer Association of Ontario, its rich history, headquarters, volunteer network, and mission continue to shape its legacy. Learn more at <a href=\"http:\/\/iottawa.net\">iottawa.net<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_74 counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-custom ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<label for=\"ez-toc-cssicon-toggle-item-6a85c3fa88c8e\" class=\"ez-toc-cssicon-toggle-label\"><span class=\"\"><span class=\"eztoc-hide\" style=\"display:none;\">Toggle<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-icon-toggle-span\"><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" class=\"list-377408\" width=\"20px\" height=\"20px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\"><path d=\"M6 6H4v2h2V6zm14 0H8v2h12V6zM4 11h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2zM4 16h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" class=\"arrow-unsorted-368013\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"10px\" height=\"10px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.2\" baseProfile=\"tiny\"><path d=\"M18.2 9.3l-6.2-6.3-6.2 6.3c-.2.2-.3.4-.3.7s.1.5.3.7c.2.2.4.3.7.3h11c.3 0 .5-.1.7-.3.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7zM5.8 14.7l6.2 6.3 6.2-6.3c.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7c-.2-.2-.4-.3-.7-.3h-11c-.3 0-.5.1-.7.3-.2.2-.3.5-.3.7s.1.5.3.7z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/span><\/label><input type=\"checkbox\"  id=\"ez-toc-cssicon-toggle-item-6a85c3fa88c8e\"  aria-label=\"Toggle\" \/><nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 ' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/iottawa.net\/en\/eternal-ontario-historical-society\/#Founding_History\" >Founding History<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/iottawa.net\/en\/eternal-ontario-historical-society\/#John_McKenzie_House\" >John McKenzie House<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/iottawa.net\/en\/eternal-ontario-historical-society\/#Mission_and_Objectives_of_the_Ontario_Historical_Society\" >Mission and Objectives of the Ontario Historical Society<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/iottawa.net\/en\/eternal-ontario-historical-society\/#Ontario_History_Journal\" >Ontario History Journal<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Founding_History\"><\/span>Founding History<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">On September 4, 1888, the Ontario Historical Society was established, largely through the efforts of Henry Scadding. Initially a federation of local groups, its goal was to promote British-Canadian nationalism through a historical lens.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">By 1898, the society underwent reorganization, shifting its focus to preserving archival documents and historic sites. Today, OHS is a non-profit charitable organization uniting people of all ages, backgrounds, and interests in Ontario&#8217;s history.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The historic John McKenzie House, along with the adjacent dairy barn and stables, is protected under the Ontario Heritage Act, emphasizing its importance to the province\u2019s history.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The society is led by a volunteer Board of Directors, supported by a network of over 350 affiliated societies, including individual members, institutions, and organizations.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.iottawa.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/37\/2025\/01\/17101909\/ad_4nxdyn4je_ix6uucyjbjblxuyyd2iai2jq8uj7qaxcfoxviwfu2_3egriw-of7lhoqtoaya2qjjmtzm_s7w7dwutrkjklypimo-9r5ozhxqewjacxjfdak-ydsofsfg9bytwjy55v5akeyfqd3ljgpuo5nvtmbj3xndgqr.png\" alt=\"\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"John_McKenzie_House\"><\/span>John McKenzie House<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The headquarters of the Ontario Historical Society is located at the John McKenzie House in Willowdale, Ontario. Built in 1913, this building has a fascinating history. Initially, it was the second home for a pioneering family.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">In 1801, part of the land was granted to Jacob Cummer, and in 1884, a portion was purchased by English immigrant Philip McKenzie, John\u2019s father. Philip and his wife Sarah moved into the old Cummer farmhouse. Their son John took over the farm, specializing in Holstein cattle.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">As farming conditions deteriorated, John subdivided the property in 1912, registering the &#8220;Empress Subdivision.&#8221; Willowdale transformed from a rural village into a suburban community. In 1913, John and his wife Eva constructed a brick home and built a carriage house and stable on the property.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Ontario Historical Society has since restored all four historical structures. The carriage house, for example, was renovated to accommodate cars through a public community program. Adjacent to the John McKenzie House, there is a volunteer-run organic community garden.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.iottawa.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/37\/2025\/01\/17101909\/ad_4nxfqhisbubwwvhrkcz29o4k0-6ne4cnnx48ssop8qbc2ky9j7c1xeefsegmiiceyrcsetc5pno4oy-wx0k28dvkmvcubxp1irot1fkw8nmeuepba21voustp81r1nrsu8crp7fflvqkeyfqd3ljgpuo5nvtmbj3xndgqr.png\" alt=\"\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Mission_and_Objectives_of_the_Ontario_Historical_Society\"><\/span>Mission and Objectives of the Ontario Historical Society<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Engaging Stakeholders<br>The OHS brings together individuals, organizations, and institutions to exchange ideas, research, and experiences related to Ontario\u2019s rich history, including its cultural and natural heritage, cemeteries, and scientific studies.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Networking<br>It serves as a hub for museums, cultural organizations, and historical societies dedicated to preserving and promoting Ontario&#8217;s local history and heritage.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Sponsoring Programs<br>The society sponsors educational programs and projects across Ontario, providing opportunities to explore the province&#8217;s fascinating history.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Education<br>OHS offers educational resources and professional development opportunities to encourage a focus on Ontario\u2019s history in classrooms and museums.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Volunteers<br><a href=\"https:\/\/iottawa.net\/uk\/eternal-yak-staty-volonterom-v-ottavi\">Volunteers<\/a> play a critical role in OHS&#8217;s operations, offering their time and expertise to organize research, exhibitions, lectures, and events. Their dedication to history and passion for sharing knowledge are integral to the society\u2019s success.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.iottawa.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/37\/2025\/01\/17101908\/ad_4nxenpg9qwuxamjlid5zekc6na3e7ifkxhpcewe2cydejifjhqmtpleq5ojlbrrpbm9mmatn7ddleqhjhtjlauayrtiz9gxvghokxwyzqgu0jzfrnoqkv3gdt2vz8mgzmec35f_jckeyfqd3ljgpuo5nvtmbj3xndgqr.png\" alt=\"\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Ontario_History_Journal\"><\/span>Ontario History Journal<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The OHS publishes a peer-reviewed journal called Ontario History, featuring articles and book reviews on the province&#8217;s history. The journal is published twice a year and is considered a cornerstone for discussions on Ontario&#8217;s past.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">First published in 1899 as Papers and Records, the journal was originally created to preserve important documentary sources. Over the last century, it has evolved into a modern scholarly publication, presenting new research and perspectives on Ontario&#8217;s heritage.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Why Ontario History Appeals to Readers<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Diverse Topics<br>The journal covers a wide range of topics, ensuring there is something of interest for every history enthusiast.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Expert-Reviewed Content<br>All articles and studies undergo rigorous peer review, ensuring accuracy and reliability.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>International Contributions<br>Articles from Canadian and international scholars provide diverse perspectives on Ontario\u2019s history.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Flexible Formats<br>Available in both print and digital formats, readers can choose their preferred method of access.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.iottawa.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/37\/2025\/01\/17101907\/ad_4nxc_xypi3q6aiprqdvg13bzb27sxar070nx5z1icjxauc16vpcdqqgblyuepnfpglgyqqsitun8jlqskhocgmo0s56qusbl0adbmbexbvz3khprqa1_khl2u3fa5kq95nxv-3s1hxakeyfqd3ljgpuo5nvtmbj3xndgqr.png\" width=\"602\" height=\"824\">The Ontario Historical Society remains a driving force in preserving, interpreting, and promoting the multifaceted heritage of Ontario, ensuring it is appreciated for generations to come.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>The Ontario Historical Society (OHS) is the province&#8217;s most prominent historical organization. Initially known as the Pioneer Association of Ontario, its rich history, headquarters, volunteer network, and mission continue to shape its legacy. Learn more at iottawa.net. Founding History On September 4, 1888, the Ontario Historical Society was established, largely through the efforts of Henry [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":526,"featured_media":13804,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[4819],"tags":[7935,7933,7928,7927,7934,7932,7929,7931,7930,7926,7936],"moimportance":[656,31,32,35],"motype":[4825],"moformat":[88],"class_list":["post-14727","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","category-innovator","tag-founding-history","tag-john-mackenzie-house","tag-mission-of-the-ontario-historical-society","tag-non-profit-and-charitable-organization","tag-ontario-historical-society","tag-ontario-histories","tag-ontarios-heritage","tag-preserving-ontarios-heritage","tag-publicizing-ontarios-multifaceted-heritage","tag-scholarly-journal-ontario-history","tag-society-headquarters","moimportance-trending","moimportance-aktualna-bilshe-roku","moimportance-golovna-novyna","moimportance-retranslyacziya-v-agregatory","motype-eternal","moformat-copywriting"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/iottawa.net\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/14727","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/iottawa.net\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/iottawa.net\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/iottawa.net\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/526"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/iottawa.net\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=14727"}],"version-history":[{"count":1,"href":"https:\/\/iottawa.net\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/14727\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":14740,"href":"https:\/\/iottawa.net\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/14727\/revisions\/14740"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/iottawa.net\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/13804"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/iottawa.net\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=14727"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/iottawa.net\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=14727"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/iottawa.net\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=14727"},{"taxonomy":"moimportance","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/iottawa.net\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/moimportance?post=14727"},{"taxonomy":"motype","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/iottawa.net\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/motype?post=14727"},{"taxonomy":"moformat","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/iottawa.net\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/moformat?post=14727"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}