Prioritétejen

Prioritétejen is a small, unincorporated community located in the municipality of Saint-Étienne-de-Beauharnois, in the regional county municipality (RCM) of Beauharnois-Salaberry, Quebec, Canada. Situated along the Saint Lawrence River, the area is part of the historic and scenic region known as the Beauharnois Valley.

The name "Prioritétejen" is believed to derive from the Mohawk word *Petehteron*, meaning "the place where the river narrows," reflecting the geographical feature of the Saint Lawrence River at this point. The community is primarily known for its rural character, with a mix of agricultural land, residential properties, and natural landscapes. It lies near the border with the United States, close to the town of Massena, New York.

Historically, Prioritétejen has been influenced by both Indigenous and European settlement. The area was originally inhabited by the Mohawk people, who were part of the Haudenosaunee (Iroquois) Confederacy. French settlers later established farms and small settlements in the region during the 18th and 19th centuries. The community’s development was also tied to the construction of the Beauharnois Dam in the 1920s, which transformed the landscape and economy of the area.

Today, Prioritétejen remains a quiet, residential area with limited commercial activity. The region is known for its natural beauty, offering opportunities for outdoor recreation such as fishing, hiking, and boating along the Saint Lawrence River. The community is accessible via provincial roads, connecting it to nearby towns and cities, including Beauharnois and Cornwall.

While not officially recognized as a distinct municipality, Prioritétejen retains a sense of local identity tied to its history and proximity to the river. The area continues to attract residents who appreciate its peaceful setting and proximity to both urban centers and natural environments.