100% Canadian

15 August 2025
Activating Canadian Historical Sites On The Air with the KJ6ER POTA PERformer

Canada's rich history offers countless opportunities for amateur radio operators to combine their love of the outdoors, history, and radio. Canadian Historical Sites On The Air (HSOTA) is a perfect program for those who enjoy exploring heritage locations while making contacts. And when you co‑activate an HSOTA site alongside Parks On The Air (POTA), you double the fun — and the contacts.

On a recent activation from my home QTH in New Brunswick, I tested the KJ6ER POTA PERformer antenna to see how it might perform for future HSOTA/POTA co‑activations.

Purchase the POTA PERformer Kit Here.

 

The KJ6ER POTA PERformer – Portable, Elevated, Resonant

 

Designed by Greg Mihran (KJ6ER), the POTA PERformer is a lightweight, elevated vertical antenna made for portable HF operations. Covering 40M through 6M, it uses a feedpoint about five feet above ground with two adjustable elevated radials.

For HSOTA and POTA activators, this means:

  • Quick deployment at historical or park sites
  • Efficient performance even in less‑than‑ideal ground conditions
  • Portability for easy transport between multiple activation locations

 

 

Testing from New Brunswick

 

While my activation location wasn't a registered HSOTA site this time, I wanted to simulate the type of performance I could expect when operating from one. Using the POTA PERformer from my home QTH, I successfully made DX contacts with:

  • Croatia
  • Northern Ireland
  • Trinidad and Tobago
  • Newfoundland

 

These results were achieved with minimal setup time  — precisely what you want during a busy co‑activation day when logging both HSOTA and POTA contacts.

 

Why the POTA PERformer Works for HSOTA Co‑Activations

 

You may face space limitations, variable terrain, and time constraints when activating a Canadian historical site. The POTA PERformer’s elevated radials and resonant design make it ideal for quick setups without sacrificing signal strength.

Pairing HSOTA with POTA means you'll often be on the air longer and working more stations, so having an efficient and easy antenna to redeploy between bands is a significant advantage.

 

Build or Buy Options

 

The POTA PERformer can be:

  • Built yourself using readily available parts and simple tools
  • Purchased as a kit from J‑Systems on Etsy for a quick, ready‑to‑assemble solution

 

Either way, you'll have a capable antenna ready for your next HSOTA and POTA adventure.

Final Thoughts

 

If you plan to activate a Canadian Historical Site On The Air and co‑activate with Parks On The Air, the KJ6ER POTA PERformer is an excellent choice. My New Brunswick test proved it can easily reach across the Atlantic, the Caribbean, and Canada.

Whether standing beside a centuries‑old fort, a historic lighthouse, or a national heritage site, this antenna will help you share Canada's history with the world — one QSO at a time.

 

Tips for Co‑Activating HSOTA and POTA

 

  1. Research Your Site: Check if your chosen Canadian Historical Site On The Air location is also inside a Parks On The Air reference area. Many national historic sites are part of Parks Canada, meaning you can log both programs simultaneously.
  2. Pack Light, Operate Smart: Choose portable gear like the KJ6ER POTA PERformer that sets up quickly and works efficiently in limited space.
  3. Log Carefully: Keep separate logs for HSOTA and POTA, or use logging software that supports dual reference entries to save time during the activation.
  4. Mind the History: Respect the site's heritage and follow all local rules. Avoid attaching antennas to historical structures.
  5. Promote Your Activation: Post your activation details on the HSOTA and POTA spots pages to attract chasers from both communities.

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