Founding Date:	1970
Address:	390 Sinasac Avenue West Harrow, Ontario N0R 1G0
Telephone:	519-738-4021

A dynamic Portuguese association in Harrow, Ontario

The Camões Portuguese Club of Harrow is a Portuguese cultural and social association located in Harrow, Ontario, serving one of the most established Portuguese communities in Canada. The Portuguese community of Harrow inaugurated its new headquarters just over a decade ago, creating a landmark that strengthened the Portuguese presence in Southern Ontario.

History of the Camões Portuguese Club of Harrow

The Portuguese community of Harrow inaugurated its new headquarters just over a decade ago, creating a landmark that strengthened the Portuguese presence in Southern Ontario.

Delfina Pedro, President of the organization at the time of the building’s unveiling, was one of the driving forces behind the project. The construction of the new hall marked the end of a period in which community participation had begun to decline. The new facility includes a main hall with a capacity of 450 people, a smaller room accommodating 45 guests, a bar with terrace access, and administrative office space.

The first Portuguese immigrants arrived in Harrow to work primarily in agriculture, local factories, and the construction industry. By 1970, the community had grown significantly, leading a group of friends to organize celebrations in honour of Portugal’s patron saint, Our Lady of Fátima — an initiative that led to the founding of the association.

Initially without a permanent headquarters, and with Humberto Carvalho elected as the first president, board meetings were held in the homes of directors.

In 1974, the organization purchased the property that would become its long-time home. The land had belonged to a German family, and the acquisition was made possible through collective contributions from Portuguese families living in the region.

During its early years, religious festivities served as the main connection to Portuguese heritage. Over time, the club evolved into a broader social and cultural institution, organizing community events and forming a football team that represented the club for several years.

Cultural expression also developed through the creation of a folkloric dance group (Rancho Folclórico). Initially composed largely of members from Windsor, the group later became fully rooted in the Harrow community. Though originally independent from the club, it rehearsed at the facilities and today represents regional traditions from across Portugal.

At the time construction began on the new building, the project was estimated at approximately $1.5 million. Today, the modern hall hosts both organizational activities and numerous private events, reinforcing its role as a central gathering place for the Portuguese community.

Sources: Luso-Ontario Magazine (2008)

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