125th Anniversary for Police Village of Russell

This year marks the 125^th anniversary of the Police Village of Russell, incorporated by the United Counties of Prescott and Russell in 1898. The Township of Russell would like to recognize this significant milestone in our community’s history.

Many community groups are in the process of planning events for this historic year. The Township, the Police Village of Russell Trustees, and events organizers encourage all residents to volunteer or participate! Subscribe to our events calendar to stay updated.

“Whether you're a lifelong Russellite, or someone who is new to the area, these events will be an excellent opportunity for us to better understand our past and bring us all together in the present to connect as a community” shares Mayor Leroux.

Did you know? Despite its name, the Police Village of Russell has no relation to “police officers” as we know today. In Ontario during the early 19^th century, a community could be recognized as a “Police Village” if it was too small (either in population or in funds) to be considered a normal village. The public would elect representatives, called Trustees, who would oversee getting the area minor street lighting, garbage collection, and other projects. Although the village of Russell is now a large community it has kept its official “Police Village” status, with three Trustees publicly elected to oversee the Police Village of Russell Trust.