OLD OTTAWA SOUTH

Overview & Location

Old Ottawa South is a historic, relatively small, and compact neighbourhood in Ottawa, Ontario, bordered by the Rideau Canal to the north and the Rideau River to the south, Bronson Avenue to the west, and Avenue Road to the east. It features a mix of well-preserved heritage homes and low-density housing, with a traditional "Main Street" feel along Bank Street and a vibrant community life fostered by its active community association, residents, and proximity to Carleton University. 

History and Growth

  • Early Settlement:

    Settlers arrived as early as 1814, with pioneers like the Williams family establishing roots in the area. 

  • Rideau Canal:

    The construction of the Rideau Canal in the late 1820s significantly shaped the neighbourhood. 

  • Suburban Growth:

    The late 1800s and early 1900s saw rapid growth due to land speculation and the establishment of a streetcar line, transforming the area into a suburban community. 

  • Annexation and Name Change:

    The area, originally called Ottawa South, was annexed to the City of Ottawa in 1907. The name "Old Ottawa South" became common in the 1990s to distinguish it from the further southern extensions of the city. 

Key Features

  • Geography:

    It is defined by its setting between the Rideau Canal and the Rideau River. 

  • Architecture:

    Many homes are well-preserved heritage buildings, with much of the existing housing stock built between 1900 and 1960. 

  • Community:

    The neighbourhood has a strong sense of community, evident in its active community association (OSCA), which organizes events like the Fall Fest. 

  • Lifestyle:

    Residents enjoy a mix of amenities, including restaurants, shops, a public library, and recreational facilities such as parks, sports fields, and community gardens. 

  • Bank Street:

    Bank Street serves as a central commercial artery, featuring pubs, stores, the Mayfair Theatre, and the Ottawa Folklore Centre. 

  • Proximity to University:

    The presence of Carleton University contributes to the area's vibrancy and attracts a diverse population of students and professors.