The town was settled by Loyalists in the late 18th century and was first incorporated in 1854. Sir John A. Macdonald, Canada's first prime minister, practiced law in Napanee was said to have an affinity for the town, and today many surveys have said it to be one of the prettiest towns in the province.
Singer Avril Lavigne is a Napanee native.
The largest employer is a Goodyear Tire plant.\n