Like much of the surrounding area, it is most well known for its rolling hills of farm country, scenic views, and rural lifestyle.

History of East Garafraxa

The Township of East Garafraxa was first opened for settlement in 1822. For the first 40 years that it existed, it was part of a larger township that was simply “Garrafraxa.” It was separated into ‘West’ and ‘East’ Garrafraxa in 1850, and the second ‘r’ was dropped from the name around 1860. There are a number of theories as to how its name came to be. Some say it was named for the Sassafras plant, others believe it was named after a scottish Stream (The River Garry), or perhaps after an Irish Castle.

The Township was primarily settled by Irish protestant immigrants and was home to British descendants well into the early 20th century. It was and continues to be, primarily a farming community. The township never actually had any tons within its boundaries, but it was home to several postal villages and hamlets.

Predominantly settled by Irish Protestant immigrants beginning in the 1830s, the township was home to British descendants into the early 20th century. East Garafraxa officially became part of Dufferin County in 1881.

Lifestyle & Culture

Known to locals as East ‘Gary,’ the township offers country living within a reasonable commute south to surrounding communities to the south, east and west including Brampton, Mississauga, Fergus, Guelph and the Waterloo Region.

The community is home to some major employers like Jay-Lor, a manufacturer that serves the agricultural industry, but nearby Orangeville, Grand Valley and Shelburne also offer employment opportunities and quick access to most all amenities.

The Grand River flows through the municipality and both the Upper Grand Trailway and Elora Cataract Trailway provide hikers, cyclists, cross country skiers and horseback riders access to the beautiful countryside of East Garafraxa and beyond.