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.
17. Snow joke
Locals battle through the snow on Oxgangs Road in Edinburgh back in February, 2009. | TSPL
18. Food time
Sandwich making in May, 1998, as Oxgangs Primary pupils Siobhan Gibson age 10, left, with friend Clare Veness, 10, try each others sandwiches. | TSPL
19. Footy action
Football action in May, 1997, as Holy Cross Primary in stripes took on Oxgangs Primary. | TSPL
20. Flooding
Pictured with a water pump is Paul Curran of Oxgangs Road North in August, 2008, after his garden was hit by flooding following a heavy downpour. | TSPL Photo: Bill Henry