History

The history of the Canadian Heritage Information Network (CHIN) begins with its creation in 1972.

From the start, CHIN has helped heritage institutions to use information and communications technologies for the greater benefit of Canadians.

This important work began with the national inventory of museum objects in the 1970s. It continued with CHIN ’s support of national museums in the 1980s and the introduction of Web access to professional resources in the 1990s.

The creation of the Virtual Museum of Canada (VMC) in 2001 marked the culmination of CHIN ’s commitment to providing online access to Canada’s heritage. This remarkable portal has enabled museums to take their stories and treasures in homes, schools and places of work across Canada and around the world.