Ottawa has arguably changed from its lumbertown roots moreso than any other city in Canada. Unlike it's counterpart in Washington DC, present-day Ottawa would be almost unrecognizable to its founding fathers.
Apparently, by 1884 it still hadn't transformed into a very attractive place. As Prime Minister Wilfrid Laurier put it:
"I would not wish to say anything disparaging about the capital, but it is hard to say anything good. Ottawa is not a handsome city, and does not appear destined to become one either."
Frederick Gage Todd, a pioneer in Canadian landscape architecture, left a lasting legacy on the nation's urban landscape. His work spanned a diverse range of projects, from intimate gardens to grand city plans, and his influence can still be seen in many of Canada's most beloved urban spaces.
Frederick Gage Todd, a prominent Canadian landscape architect, made significant contributions to the development and beautification of Ottawa.
1903 Ottawa Improvement Commission Plan: Todd created a comprehensive plan for the future development of Ottawa, outlining key features like the Driveway system, Gatineau Park, the importance of waterways, and the symbolism of Parliament Hill. This plan has had a lasting impact on the city's urban landscape.
Confederation Park: Todd designed Confederation Park, located on the grounds of the former Rideau Canal locks. The park features a commemorative fountain and a monument to the Fathers of Confederation, making it a significant historical and cultural landmark in Ottawa.
In his 1903 report, Todd offered advice on the layout of the Rideau Canal Driveway (Now Queen Elisabeth Driveway), which was under construction. He recommended a regional system of parks connected by scenic parkways. I estimate that this cache is located about 50m from the photo taken below!
He also strongly advocated for the creation of an urban park at Patterson Creek.
Todd's influence extended beyond these specific projects. His work helped shape Ottawa's overall aesthetic and contributed to its reputation as a beautiful and well-planned city. His legacy continues to be felt in Ottawa today, as his vision for a green and vibrant city has been realized through the development of parks, boulevards, and other public spaces.