Mechanicsville (Ottawa)

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Mechanicsville is a neighbourhood of Ottawa, Canada. It is located to the west of downtown between the Ottawa River and the Transitway. Its western border is the Parkdale Avenue. The area was annexed to the city of Ottawa in 1911. Some sources suggest that the name Mechanicsville arose after this annexation because it became home to blue collar workers, especially those who worked in the rail yards. In fact, Mechanicsville was known by that name as early as 1879 when it was shown in Belden's Historical Atlas of Carleton County in Nepean Twp., being part of Lot 36 in Concession A, Ottawa Front. Mechanicsville in 1879 was considerably smaller than the present day Ottawa neighbourhood. Its western boundary was then the present-day Parkdale Avenue. Today the area retains its working class character and is one of the lower income areas of Ottawa. The area's most prominent landmark is the Protection of the Holy Virgin Memorial Church.