In 1812, the Billings family settled on the shores of the Rideau River and took an active role in shaping the community as it evolved. They helped build farms and churches, ran a dairy operation, and contributed to the development of the Byward Market by providing produce for sale and building the “Farmers’ Bridge.”

This National Historic Site on 8 acres of green space is home to one of Ottawa’s oldest community cemeteries where well-known Ottawa pioneers are laid to rest.