Canso Historical Society

03/28/2026

Special memories are a part of what we are all about at Whitman House here in Canso... and today we'd like to honour the passing of our dedicated friend, neighbour, community volunteer, and Museum Curator who passed away a year ago today. Martha Kavanaugh was a whirling dervish of capacity and determination in all of the organizations she was a part of, from Scouts and Minor Hockey, the Arena Commission, Historical Society and the Shamrock Club to name a few. A lady who was able to train and prepare so many young people in their first jobs in the tourism industry through our Visitor Information Centre. More importantly she was a mother and grandmother to a large local family who brought her own Newfoundland sensibilities to bear and share with us all. Tonight and tomorrow night as you drive by Whitman House we are leaving a few lights on behind our amber windows to celebrate and remember someone who settled here in Canso, who raised a family with Sandy and who touched most all of our lives in some way. It's hard to believe she's been gone now for a year, but our memories will carry her forward.

09/30/2025

Was looking for a good share for today and just found this one for us.

September 30 is the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, a day to reflect on the profound impacts of residential schools, acknowledging the pain and trauma experienced by Indigenous communities.

We remember the children who never came home and honour the strength of survivors, their families, and communities as they continue to grieve and heal. 🧡

Visit the National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation website to learn more and explore resources: https://nctr.ca/

09/17/2025

Our summer is winding down here at Whitman House for another season, just four days left to come in and visit with our guides Melissa and Kandace and be shown through much of the history of our community.

Special thanks to our summer students, Cassie and Myra, and all our visitors and supporters. Drop by anytime from 9 till 5 from Wednesday September 17th until Saturday September 20th.

We'll look forward to seeing you next spring.

09/02/2025

They all seem to say that the summer is over with the kids returning to school, truth is that we have two of the best months of the year ahead of us! This summer we had a great visit from Bluenose II and from their "Mobile Exhibit" In addition, the result of a challenge between Canso and Port Hawkesbury on boat floatilla's during her visits to both ports was a tie! Both communities have received a trophy and ours is now on display on the mantle in the front parlour of Whitman House for everyone to admire. Below are a few pictures from the competition and Bluenose II's visit to Canso. Congratulations to the Canso Development Association for sponsoring the event along with the Port Hawkesbury Yacht Club.

09/01/2025

A special message for today ! https://www.facebook.com/share/v/1Fcr7F7oqA/

08/28/2025

Kaleb Dupuis was in to have his picture taken with his abstract winning artwork which he hasn't as yet titled. Both Kaleb and Eileen were presented with $50.00 gift certificates for their winning entries to our "Art from Near and Far" contest.

08/20/2025

Congratulations to the winners of our "Art Near and Far" competition at the Whitman House. All votes have been tabulated and audited and our winners are:

Youth winner Kaleb Dupuis for his painting... and Adult winner Eileen Chisholm for her painting of the Canso Waterfront.

Each will be presented with a $50 gift certificate for Co-op / Sobeys and our congratulations in a competition that demonstrates the broad range of talent of our artists from "Near and Far". Special thanks to our staff for overseeing our great display of art work, Melissa, Cassie and Myra and for hosting our visitors this sunny summer in Canso.

08/17/2025

Whitman House Musuem is open for the last day of Canso Regatta.
Please drop by and place your vote on our "Art Near and Far" competition. All art work is on display for your viewing from 9am till 5pm.
Drop by and sign our guest book, have a visit with our tour guides and choose your favourite artist from Near or Far.!

Send a message to learn more

08/16/2025

Check out this free fun event tomorrow afternoon at the Whitman House Gazebo! Everyone is welcome down on the Waterfront on Water Street.

08/13/2025

Check in at the Whitman House to view some of our artifacts from the Canso Regatta in past years...

a plaque for the "Belmont Lumsden Memorial Award" for Men's Double Dory Race Winners from 1997-2011 and...

A very rare "Loving Cup Award" from the Regatta of 1887, donated by Mr. Cliff Hutchinson of Pugwash, N.S.

08/13/2025

With our 2025 edition of the Canso Regatta well and truly underway, here are a couple of images of the Sailor's Memorial Service on Sunday. Congratulations to the Canso Lions Club and all participants on this 49th edition of a heartfelt demonstration of dedication to a way of life that is challenging and not always safe, in spite of all our efforts.