The Town of Hartney is located in the province's Westman Region, and is known as the "Little town with a lot of heart". Surrounded by the natural beauty of the Rural Municipality of Cameron, this community of 462 people is located on Provincial Trunk Highway 21 in the southwestern corner of Manitoba. This comfortable community with an array of opportunities, is 80 kilometres from Westman's regional centre, Brandon, and 275 kilometres from Winnipeg, the provincial capital.
History
The Town of Hartney has a rich history, one that has exhibited progress and potential for over a century. James Hartney established the first settlement in the area in the late 1800's. Recognizing the growth potential for the area, he planted his first crop in 1882. The prosperity of his farm quickly drew more settlers to the Hartney area. With the influx of settlers, Mr.Hartney opened the areas first post office and soon after, a general store and blacksmith shop followed to serve the new residents. The Canadian Pacific Railway came through the area, and the community moved from Hartney's farmstead to its present location. Named in honour of its founder, Hartney celebrated its 115th birthday in 1997. The Town of Hartney lies in some of the best producing agricultural land on the Canadian Prairies.
Economic Base
Many residents of the rural areas surrounding the town make their living from the land. Principal crops are grains and oilseeds, though some producers have diversified into other ventures. Several intensive livestock operations have sprouted up in the area offering employment for many locals. Hartney supports the local agriculture industry through many of its service businesses. Farm implement dealers and service shops, a full-service grain elevator, and a handful of manufacturing firms all work to provide area farmers with the tools and services they need.
Additional town businesses provide goods and services to Hartney and the surrounding area at a retail level, and increase the economic activity of the town. The tourism industry is also growing in the Hartney area.
Major Attractions
Fort Desjarlais and the history of the fur trade are just some of the local attractions. The unique landscape of the Lauder Sandhills also draws many curious sightseers and naturalists to the Hartney area. Archaeological digs in the sandhills are peaking the interest of local residents, tourists and naturalists alike.
The rolling plains surrounding Hartney, also offer a unique opportunity to birdwatchers from near and far. Species such as the Ferruginous Hawk, Burrowing Owl, Ruffed Grouse and the Western Spider Wort, can all be seen in the area.
Sports and recreational facilities are also plentiful in Hartney. The beautiful Hartney Golf Course features 9-holes with grass greens and a clubhouse. An outdoor swimming pool is open from June to September, and always has lifeguards on duty. Construction is almost complete on a new hockey arena and curling rink.
A nearby park has groomed trails suitable for hiking in the summer, and skiing and snowmobiling in the winter.
For the more culturally minded individuals, the Hart-Cam Museum houses artifacts that tell the story of the life and work of the people who pioneered the area. Local residents have donated many of the items.
A movie theatre located in the old town hall plays feature films through the summer, and has all the necessary popcorn and treats to satisfy kids of all ages.
Facilities - Recreation, Parks, Culture
The Town of Hartney has an outdoor public pool that runs in the summer months, with an adjacent 12-site campground, six of which are serviced. A new community recreation centre is presently being built, which will consist of a regulation-size ice arena and a two-sheet curling facility. The old arena and curling facility will be available until the new arena is finished. The Hartney Golf Course has a well kept 9-hole course with grass greens.
