[1] Further development resulted from agriculture and forestry, and consolidation of the community, at the start of the 1900s, was thanks to the arrival of the railway, which for more than a century connected Hull (Gatineau) to Maniwaki.

[6] In the middle of the 20th century, Messines was very active in growing potatoes thanks to its sandy soil, ideal for extensive exploitation of this staple.

[6] For many years, an important agricultural co-operative was formed between the local and regional farmers of the day.

During the second half of the century, the municipality’s economy gradually changed to tourism and cottagers, thanks to the presence of its magnificent lakes.

Today, the municipality is also known for its hunting and fishing territories, and for a wide variety of recreational activities available all year long.