The Bytown reference article from the English Wikipedia on 24-Apr-2004
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Bytown

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Bytown is the former name Ottawa, Ontario, Canada.

Located where the Rideau Canal meets the Ottawa River, it took its name from John By, who as Colonel of the Engineers was instrumental in the construction of the canal. Upon incorporation of the municipality in 1855, it was given the new name Ottawa. The part of present-day Ottawa which occupies the original site of Bytown is known as the By Ward Market area of Lower Town. The history of Bytown is covered in the main article on Ottawa.