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.
21. On the beat
Police speak to teenagers in October, 2007, while out on the beat in Oxgangs. | TSPL Photo: Ian Georgeson
22. Burnt out
Councillor Eric Barry pictured in August 2008 at some run down shops on Oxgangs Avenue which were burnt out and awaiting demolition. | TSPL Photo: Ian Georgeson
23. Mock trial
P7 pupils from Oxgangs and Colinton Primary school visited Edinburgh Sheriff Court to take part in a mock trial with judge Tom Mclaughlan in November, 2009. | TSPL Photo: Ian Georgeson
24. Measuring up
Hunter's Tryst Pub in Oxgangs offered free meals for two to anybody attending the pub's opening day in November, 2001, that is over six foot tall. | TSPL