 In the late 19th century and early 20th century Oulunkylä was known for many villas that were built there.In 1921 it was separated from "Helsingin pitäjä" and became an independent municipality.However, most of the Oulunkylä area was already owned by the City of Helsinki and in 1946 Oulunkylä, along with many other suburbs, was annexed by Helsinki.