Residents of Old Ottawa South are rejoicing over the installation of new signage that narrates the tale of an ancient boulder discovered in their neighborhood during the COVID-19 pandemic. During an unveiling event at Windsor Park, Gauri Sreenivasan, a resident of Bellwood Avenue, emphasized the significance of the sign as a means of public education and engagement regarding the “Bellwood Boulder.” This massive erratic, believed to have been brought to the area by glaciers around 10,000 years ago, was unearthed in April 2021 during water pipe replacement works on Bellwood Avenue.
The boulder became a focal point for residents during the pandemic lockdown, with people gathering around it, chatting, and even climbing on it despite its unclean state. This unexpected discovery created a sense of community bonding and provided a cheerful spot for locals during challenging times. When there was a proposal to crush the boulder for easier removal, residents rallied to save it, highlighting its role as a safe gathering place that brought people together amidst isolation.
Following pressure from residents and the local city councilor, the boulder was carefully lifted by crane and relocated to Windsor Park, much to the delight of the community. Sreenivasan emphasized the lesson in the power of community unity, showcasing how collective action preserved the boulder for future generations. The new signage not only recounts the geological history of the boulder but also symbolizes the strength of community activism in safeguarding shared heritage.
The journey of the “Bellwood Boulder” from an underground relic to a celebrated landmark in Windsor Park stands as a testament to the resilience and spirit of the Old Ottawa South community.
