Residents of Old Ottawa South are rejoicing over the installation of new signage that tells the story of an ancient boulder discovered in their neighborhood during the COVID-19 pandemic. During a recent ceremony at Windsor Park, Bellwood Avenue resident Gauri Sreenivasan expressed the significance of the sign as a tool for public education and engagement.
The signage details the history of the massive erratic, now dubbed the “Bellwood Boulder,” which was left in the area by glaciers around 10,000 years ago. It remained hidden beneath Bellwood Avenue until April 2021 when it was revealed during water pipe replacement work.
Sreenivasan and other residents of Bellwood Avenue found solace in the presence of the giant rock during the pandemic lockdown. It became a gathering spot where people would chat and even climb on it, forming a sense of community amidst isolation.
When there was a proposal to crush the boulder for easier removal, Sreenivasan and fellow residents advocated for its preservation not only for its geological significance but also for the unity it brought to the neighborhood during challenging times.
Thanks to the efforts of residents and local officials, the boulder was relocated to Windsor Park, much to the delight of the community. Sreenivasan hopes that the new sign will not only educate visitors about the boulder but also demonstrate the impact of community involvement in saving a piece of natural history.
The story of the “Bellwood Boulder” serves as a reminder of the strength of community action and solidarity. It stands as a testament to how collective efforts can preserve valuable elements of history and create lasting bonds among residents.