Residents of Old Ottawa South are rejoicing over the installation of new signage that narrates the discovery of an ancient boulder unearthed in their neighborhood during the COVID-19 pandemic. During a recent unveiling event at Windsor Park, Bellwood Avenue resident Gauri Sreenivasan expressed the significance of the boulder and the need for public education and engagement through the sign.
The sign details the origins of the massive erratic, now dubbed the “Bellwood Boulder,” which was carried to the area by glaciers around 10,000 years ago. It had remained hidden beneath Bellwood Avenue until April 2021 when it was revealed during water pipe replacement work.
In a unique turn of events, residents, including Sreenivasan and others from Bellwood Avenue, bonded over the boulder during the pandemic lockdown. The rock became a gathering spot, akin to a water cooler, where people would gather, chat, and even climb it despite its unclean state. Lindsay Lambert, another resident, emphasized how the boulder became a symbol of unity and joy during a challenging time.
When there were talks of crushing the boulder for removal, Sreenivasan and the community rallied to save it, not only to preserve a piece of natural history but also to maintain the sense of togetherness it had fostered during isolation. The boulder was ultimately relocated to Windsor Park with the help of residents and local authorities.
Sreenivasan highlighted the power of community in saving the boulder, emphasizing that unity and determination can lead to positive outcomes. She hopes that the sign not only educates about the boulder’s history but also inspires others to recognize the impact of collective action.
The relocation and preservation of the “Bellwood Boulder” serve as a testament to the strength and influence of community efforts in safeguarding historical and meaningful landmarks.