Residents of Old Ottawa South are rejoicing over the installation of new signage that narrates the discovery of an ancient boulder found during city infrastructure work in their neighborhood amid the COVID-19 pandemic.
During a recent unveiling event at Windsor Park, Gauri Sreenivasan, a resident of Bellwood Avenue, expressed the significance of the boulder, now dubbed the “Bellwood Boulder,” in providing a platform for public education and engagement.
The signage details how this massive erratic rock, believed to have been transported to the area by glaciers around 10,000 years ago, remained hidden beneath Bellwood Avenue until it was unearthed in April 2021 while water pipes were being replaced.
Amid the pandemic lockdown, Sreenivasan and other Bellwood Avenue residents bonded over the boulder, which became a focal point for social interaction and a symbol of resilience during challenging times.
Despite initial plans to crush the boulder for removal, community efforts led by Sreenivasan successfully persuaded city authorities to preserve it, emphasizing its role in fostering neighborhood unity and combating feelings of isolation experienced during the pandemic.
Following advocacy from residents and local council members, the boulder was carefully relocated to Windsor Park, where it now stands as a testament to the power of community collaboration and collective action.
Sreenivasan hopes that the sign accompanying the boulder serves as a reminder of the impact achievable when communities unite for a common cause, highlighting the importance of preserving shared history and promoting solidarity.
The relocation of the “Bellwood Boulder” to Windsor Park signifies a victory for community spirit and serves as a lasting symbol of resilience and togetherness in Old Ottawa South.
