About "Make It Canton"
Make It Canton is an initiative by the town of Canton to spotlight the people, places, events, businesses, food, art, nature, and more that make Canton, CT such a great place to live, work and play. Our locals know the history, community, and culture that make Canton unique! For those who aren’t so familiar, we created Make it Canton to serve as a centralized location where people can learn about what is happening in Canton and all that the town offers! From residents of surrounding cities to out-of-state tourists, prospective homebuyers to budding entrepreneurs, and everyone in between – there is something for everyone in Canton!
By showcasing the different ways that our community members have made Canton their own, we hope to inspire visitors to venture to #MakeItCanton themselves.
The History of Canton, CT
Beginning as a community where farmers first settled in 1737, the Town of Canton was officially incorporated in 1806. Twenty years later, Canton became part of an industrializing nation with the establishment of the Collins Axe Company, one of the world’s first ax factories. The town is shaped both by its rich industrial history as well as its natural landscape — farmland, the river and surrounding woods.
Over the years, the town grew and modernized as a village center, neighborhoods and businesses built up around it. Today, modern shopping and dining, charming stores and cafes, a walkable downtown and a variety of entertainment options contribute to the unique character of Canton.