History
A Vast Territory in the Heart of the Laurentians
The Municipality of the Township of Harrington covers an area of nearly 244 square kilometers in the administrative region of the Laurentians, within the MRC d’Argenteuil. Today, it is home to 937 residents of Harrington. Known for its architectural heritage and magnificent landscapes, Harrington is a corner of the country where picturesque nature and the tranquility of the surroundings offer a sought‑after quality of life. Its mixed forests, rivers, and lakes shape a unique setting, reminiscent of the time when dairy farms and large crops were found here.
Located about 40 kilometers from Lachute and Mont‑Tremblant, and roughly 50 kilometers from Saint‑Jérôme, Harrington enjoys a privileged position between nature and proximity to urban centers.
The First Settlers
Around 1830, the first Scottish settlers established themselves along the Lost River, surrounded by wooded hills and numerous lakes. This watercourse owes its unusual name to the fact that, a few miles from its source, the water disappears beneath a limestone rock, dividing the waters of Gate Lake and Fraser Lake.
The township was officially proclaimed in 1841. A few years later, around 1849, another group of settlers from Glenelg, Scotland, founded the village of Lost River, located on the slope of a hill watered by the Lost River.
Lost River and Other Villages
The village of Lost River remains an integral part of the Township of Harrington. The village of Rivington is also found here, whose post office bore that name from 1878 to 1961. Other villages and hamlets complete the territory: Harrington, Lakeview, and Lac‑Keatley.
Civil Constitution and Origin of the Name
The municipality of the Township of Harrington was civilly constituted in 1855. Its name pays tribute to Charles Stanhope, third Earl of Harrington (1753‑1829), politician and British Commander‑in‑Chief in Ireland between 1806 and 1812.
Heritage
Around 1900, the mission of Notre‑Dame‑de‑la‑Victoire‑de‑Harrington was founded on part of the townships of Harrington and Grenville.
Today, Harrington proudly preserves its historical and cultural heritage while showcasing its natural landscapes. Between lakes, forests, and villages, the township remains a place where past and present meet harmoniously.
The Harrington Valley
The Harrington Valley is a vast agricultural and natural territory that reflects the history of the township. Its fertile fields, surrounded by hills and forests, long hosted dairy farms and large crops. Even today, this valley retains its picturesque character and remains a place where rural heritage and natural beauty come together.
The Rouge River
The Rouge River runs through the municipality and shapes its landscape. It is renowned for its spectacular scenery and contributes fully to Harrington’s identity.