Barbara Dickson is a Canadian author, historian, and public speaker whose work takes overlooked stories of Canada’s past and brings them into public awareness. Through research, storytelling, and a commitment to historical preservation, she illuminates the vital contributions of women, particularly during the Second World War, to ensure their experiences are recognized and remembered. Her writing, initiatives, and lectures are helping to shape how Canadian history is understood, taught, and commemorated.
Barbara Dickson is a Canadian author, historian, and researcher best known for preserving and sharing the remarkable stories of Canada’s World War II “Bomb Girls.” Her award-winning work brings to life the experiences of the women who laboured in munitions factories on the home front, helping to fuel the Allied victory overseas.
Barbara’s passion for history and storytelling has made her a respected voice in Canadian heritage. She is the author of Bomb Girls: Trading Aprons for Ammo and Courage and Grit: The Legacy of Canada’s Bomb Girls, both of which draw on years of meticulous research, interviews, and archival discoveries.
Barbara Dickson’s writing brings life and humanity to Canadian history, making complex research accessible to a broad audience.
Her books explore the lives, labour, and legacy of women whose contributions shaped Canada during times of national crisis including World War 2. Each work reflects extensive research and a commitment to honouring lived experience.
As a historian, Barbara Dickson specializes in women’s wartime labour, particularly during the Second World War. Her research highlights the intersection of industry, gender, and national service, revealing how women supported Canada’s war effort on the home front.
Her work includes archival research, oral history and story collection, artifact preservation, and collaboration with heritage and historical organizations.
Barbara Dickson is an engaging and respected public speaker who brings history to life. Her presentations combine historical insight with storytelling, making complex topics accessible and meaningful.
Barbara’s presentations are well suited for diverse audiences, with custom talks available for museums and heritage organizations, schools and universities, community groups, and keynote lectures.
Barbara Dickson is available for interviews, commentary, and expert insight on Canadian history, women’s history, and public commemoration.
In addition to her research and writing, Barbara has an established background in public history and historical preservation.
She serves as Chair of the Bomb Girls Legacy Foundation, where she leads initiatives in research, education, community programming, and commemoration.
