The south Edinburgh area’s name derives from ‘oxgang’, an old unit of land measurement. The building of the area started in around 1953/54, before that there had only been a number of prefab houses and several farms, but it had been mostly farmland and was considered to be part of the countryside.
The area soon consisted of large public housing schemes, ranging from private bungalows, to high rise tower blocks - although these have now been demolished.
Among the great photos we found of life in Oxgangs over the years were lighthearted moments including local pupils at Edinburgh Sheriff Court performing a mock trial, pub-goers being measured for free food, the Comiston Springs figurines, and a visit from Santa.
There are also photos of bad times for the area including flooding, a school fire and a shocking fireworks display that went wrong. As well as great photos of good days for the community, including the successful campaign to save the local post office, and the opening of a new sports pavilion in the area.
1. Community victory
The Post Office on Oxgangs Broadway was saved from closure in January 2009. In the foreground of the photo is Post Master Owen Connelly and Post Office Assistant Karen Lee. Holding up the SAVED signs are (l-r) Ian McKee MSP, Councillor Jason Rust, Eric Barry (local councillor) and Deenis Williams (owner of Broadway Convenience Store). | TSPL Photo: Iconic Media
2. Using your head
The Opening of a new Edinburgh Leisure sports pavilion at Colinton Mains Park in August 2012. Cllr Richard Lewis and Mark Cowan, head of facilities at Sport Scotland, with AC Oxgangs football team players Christian Pacitti, 7, and Jack Brydon, 8, (right). | TSPL Photo: Ian Georgeson
3. Garden party
A Charity Garden Party in July, 1961, held in aid of Cottage Homes & Royal Russell Schools appeal at Cairngorm, Swanston Road. | TSPL Photo: Iconic Media
4. Posties
A group of postmen pictured in August, 2002, being dropped off in Oxgangs to make deliveries. | TSPL