MONDAY AUGUST 3, 2026

Lieutenant Colonel John By supervised the construction of Ottawa’s Rideau Canal and had a major influence on its design. Canal construction began in 1826 and involved some 6,000 workers at multiple sites along its 202 km route. The entire length was navigable by 1832. Today, the Rideau Canal is both a National Historic Site of Canada and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

In recognition of the history of the Rideau Canal and Bytown’s founder, Lieutenant Colonel John By, and in recognition of his birth date of August 7, 1779, Colonel By Day is being celebrated on Monday, August 3 this year. 

Heritage Ottawa is participating in the celebrations with COLONEL JOHN BY: SITES, STRUCTURES & MONUMENTS, a walking tour led by former president David Jeanes on Monday, August 3 at 2 pm. From Major's Hill Park to Confederation Park the tour visits places associated with Col. By's construction of the Rideau Canal and the layout of Bytown dating back to 1826. CLICK HERE for tour details and how to register for this highly informative tour. 

Our friends at the Bytown Museum have organized a day of family-friendly activities. Visit bytownmuseum.com for details. 

Image Credit: Artwork by C. W. Jeffreys, ca. 1930-1931 / Library and Archives Canada / C-073703