New mobile app brings Manitoba’s history to your fingertips just in time for Historic Places Days

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Manitobans looking to explore the province’s rich history now have a new tool at their disposal — and it fits right in their pocket.

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The Manitoba Historical Society (MHS) has launched MHS InSite, a free mobile app that gives users access to nearly 10,000 historic sites across the province. The release of the app comes just in time for Historic Places Days, a national celebration of heritage locations taking place across Canada until July 20.

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The app offers an interactive, user-friendly map that allows people to discover nearby historic landmarks — from iconic buildings and monuments to hidden gems in remote communities. Whether in downtown Winnipeg or cottage country, users can browse by location, site category, or official heritage designation. They can also access archival information, photos, and descriptions directly from the Manitoba Historical Society’s extensive database.

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“It’s about making history more accessible to everyone,” said the MHS in a release. “Whether you’re planning a walking tour, a road trip, or just want to know more about your neighbourhood, MHS InSite puts Manitoba’s past right at your fingertips.”

Developed by Kyle Tichon of Tichon Technologies, the app aims to bridge technology and heritage in a way that appeals to both casual users and serious history buffs. The idea is to turn everyday environments into opportunities for discovery.

In addition to historical information, the app provides step-by-step directions to each site, allowing users to build customized heritage tours across the province. Locations featured in the app include historic homes, churches, schools, cemeteries, museums, and war memorials, among others.

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The launch of MHS InSite was made possible with support from the Manitoba Historical Society and funding from the Heritage Grants Program under Manitoba’s Department of Sport, Culture, Heritage and Tourism.

The Manitoba Historical Society, established in 1879, is the oldest organization in Western Canada dedicated to preserving and promoting the province’s history.

The app is now available for free download on both the App Store and Google Play.

As Historic Places Days invites Canadians to engage with local heritage sites, MHS hopes the app will help Manitobans connect more deeply with the places and stories that have shaped their communities.

“History isn’t just found in museums,” the society said. “It’s all around us — and now, it’s easier than ever to find.”

— Ty Dilello is a reporter for the Winnipeg Sun.

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