This episode explores the life and impact of Bradish Billings, one of the most influential early settlers in the Ottawa region and namesake of Billings Bridge.  After an early failure as a lumberman, Billings married Lamira Dow and moved to what would become Junction Gore. 

Junction Gore’s economy transformed when construction began on the Rideau Canal in 1826, providing local farmers with a lucrative cash market. To better access Bytown, the community—largely thanks to Billings’ influence and funding—constructed Farmer’s Bridge in 1830, connecting to what became Bank Street.