Massena is a town named after Andre Massena, the general of Napoleon Bonaparte. It's first settlers came in from Vermont. Massena was known for its mineral springs in the early 1800's, during which time there were several large hotels built to house the travelers who came for the springs benefits. Up until the early 1900's the town of Massena flourished as a health spa. Then, in 1900, Henry H. Warren was responsible for the creation of a power canal connecting the Grasse River and the St. Lawrence River. This power source was the reason for the Aluminum Company of America (then know as the Pittsburgh Reduction Company) to build in 1902, which started Massena's progress into the first part of the 20th century.<br> Then, during the 1950's, the Saint Lawrence Seaway and Power Project were responsible for the next three industries; the ALCOA expansion, construction of a Reynolds Metals facility, and an aluminum castings plant of the General Motors Powertrain Division. These companies provide jobs for many of the people in this area. Recently, there has been a development of shopping centers; The St. Lawrence Centre, Walmart, Central Tractor, and BJ's Wholesale Club.<br> This scenic town, which is only a short distance from the Adirondack Mountains, and very close to the Canadian border, has enjoyed a rich and colorful history.