The Glebe

Nestled in between the Rideau Canal and Bronson Avenue and bordered by the Queensway is the Glebe; arguably one of the more prestigious communities in the Ottawa-Carleton region. One of the main reasons for this status is the area’s roots - residents are surrounded by vintage homes that supply them with a sense of belonging to a piece of the history of Ottawa. Between 1870 and 1920, a local Church subdivided and developed the land in the area known as the Glebe. Interestingly, the word “glebe” comes from the Latin “gleba” which is defined as “a plot of cultivated land, land belonging to or yielding revenue to a parish church.” A century later, the Glebe has grown from a farming community into a distinguished centrally located residential area that is close to every amenity imaginable.

Convenience is a major asset of the Glebe. Not only is the area aesthetically pleasing, but major roadways such as Bank Street and Bronson Avenue offer a cornucopia of shops, boutiques and merchants: a shopper’s dream - especially since these retailers are walking distance from most homes in the Glebe. Many of these businesses are owned by Glebe residents.

 

There’s something relaxing about flowing water. Residents of the Glebe are well acquainted with a body of water that flows through our city. Literally at the doorstep of Glebe residents is the Canal. Joggers, walkers, in-line skaters and ice skaters from the whole region flock to the “boardwalks” of the Canal to exercise or people-watch over a picnic in the summer sun or hot drink during the winter months. For most people living in the Glebe, their domicile complements their lifestyle and their desire to have this proximity to the Canal is by no means serendipitous.

It’s rare that a centrally located community is surrounded by flora and fauna. According to a Glebe resident, “ We embrace the existence of the Experimental Farm in our community as do the many people from the Ottawa-Carleton region who visit the vibrant site every year.”

Living in the Glebe is ideal for singles, families, retirees, and students. Education of today’s youth is just as important to families in the Glebe as it is in other communities. The Glebe Collegiate Institute is celebrating its 75th anniversary this May. The many young elementary students in the area will pass through the doors of Glebe Collegiate in years to come and upon graduating some may choose to attend Carleton University in nearby Ottawa South.

 

 

The homes in the Glebe are solidly built and range from comfortable two storey abodes to multi-level dwellings beautifully covered with foliage or unique details and accents. The exteriors provide only a taste of the exquisite craftsmanship that presents itself on the interior. The simplicity on the facade of some homes can be deceptive as the interiors of most homes can be quite stately. Many homes have balconies off of the master bedroom and some fortunate home owners have roof-top terraces. Wonderful for the summertime BBQ!

You don’t necessarily need an acre of land to cultivate and design an attractive front or backyard. Limited space for landscaping is a challenge that many residents of the Glebe are willing to tackle head-on. From breath-taking hanging baskets on the veranda to stunning rock gardens surrounded by gorgeous ground cover with a sprinkling of floral warmth - pride of ownership is abundant in the Glebe.

The next time you’re shopping along Bank Street or cycling along the Canal, take a moment to discover the Glebe. You might stumble upon the residents’ annual gigantic garage sale or perhaps enjoy a moment of shade from the arch of trees overhead. You may have to pinch yourself as an area so beautiful in the city seems like a dream. It’s a dream that has come true for the residents of the Glebe.

 

By Stephanie Soran

www.OttawaFocus.com