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.
25. Old village
Swanston Village pictured in 1963 with thatched roofs, before restoration work was carried out. | TSPL
26. Bellettes
The Oxgangs Bellettes, majorettes in their bright uniforms at Gorgie Gala day in Edinburgh, June 1991. | TSPL