Residents of Old Ottawa South are rejoicing over the installation of new signage that narrates the discovery of an ancient boulder uncovered during city infrastructure work in their community amid the COVID-19 pandemic. At a recent unveiling event in Windsor Park, Bellwood Avenue resident Gauri Sreenivasan emphasized the significance of the sign in providing both public education and engagement regarding the “Bellwood Boulder.” The signage details how this massive glacial erratic, dating back around 10,000 years, was unearthed in April 2021 during water pipe replacement activities on Bellwood Avenue.
During the pandemic lockdown, Sreenivasan and other locals gravitated towards the large rock, which was left exposed on the road for weeks, becoming a communal gathering point. The boulder, fondly dubbed the “Bellwood Boulder,” served as a meeting spot and source of interaction for residents, fostering a sense of community spirit during challenging times. When there were talks of breaking down the boulder for removal, residents, led by Sreenivasan, advocated for its preservation not only for its geological significance but also for the unity it brought to the neighborhood.
Following persistent efforts by residents and local council members, the boulder was carefully transported to Windsor Park, where it now resides as a symbol of community collaboration and resilience. Sreenivasan highlighted the importance of community activism in saving the boulder, emphasizing the message of unity and collective action conveyed by the new signage. The successful preservation of the “Bellwood Boulder” stands as a testament to the power of community mobilization and advocacy in safeguarding shared heritage and fostering togetherness.