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Lansdowne Park

Statistics:

  • Community: Ottawa, Ontario
  • Year land acquired: 1868 

Historical significance:

  • The Aberdeen Pavilion at Lansdowne Park is the last surviving large-scale exhibition building from the 19th century. 

Milestones:

  • 1903-04 – Stanley Cup final played and won here by the Ottawa Silver Sevens
  • 1925, 1926, 1940, 1951, 1960, 1968, 1969, 1973, 1976 – Ottawa Rough Riders won the Grey Cup
  • 1950 – The National Football League’s New York Giants played against the Canadian Football League’s Ottawa Rough Riders

Lansdowne Park has had a significant influence on the Ottawa community through its use for sporting events and exhibitions. The oldest and grandest building at Lansdowne is Aberdeen Pavilion, opened in 1898. It was originally a venue for agricultural fairs but, during the winter months, it became one of Ottawa’s earliest skating and hockey rinks. The 1904 Stanley Cup final was played and won here by the Ottawa Silver Sevens. The historical Horticulture Building on the property, constructed in 1914, was used in the winter months for curling. Begun in 1909, the Ottawa Rough Riders football team moved to Lansdowne Park for its games. In 1925, Lansdowne hosted the first of five Grey Cup games. The park also hosted baseball games and car races throughout the 20th century. An Ontario Heritage Trust conservation easement protects the Aberdeen Pavilion, the Horticulture Building and the surrounding park and views.

See An Illustrated History of Lansdowne Park from the Ottawa Citizen newspaper.

Learn more about Lansdowne Park and the updates to the site from the City of Ottawa’s website.

Read the heritage brief for Lansdowne prepared for the City of Ottawa in 2010.