Canton had its early
beginnings as part of an Indian trade route into the Cherokee
Nation. This early frontier settlement know as Etowah was
incorporated by action of the State Legislature in 1833. Two of the
founding fathers had visions of the town becoming a silk center
similar to what existed in Canton, China. It is believed that this
is the reason for wanting the name changed from Etowah to Canton. In
1834 the name change was approved.
Canton quickly became the commercial, education, and social center
of Cherokee County. Widely known for the high-quality denim produced
by the Canton Textile Mills established in 1899 as the Canton Cotton
Mills, this industry at its peak provided jobs for 1200 people in
the area. Since the closing of the last of the two mills in 1981,
Canton has survived the transition from a mill town to a city of
prosperity offering an ideal location for various commercial,
industrial, and residential developments.
Now enjoying the greatest economic boom in its history, Canton
enjoys commercial and residential growth, while maintaining its
quality of life.
Located at the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains and along the
banks of the Etowah River, the natural beauty of the area is just
one more reason to come to Canton.
Canton Theatre
The Historic Canton Theatre on Main
Street features plays and other special entertainment events
throughout the year, injecting new life into the downtown business
district.
Brown Park
Enjoy the beautiful Brown Park with the family or just come for a
stroll.
223 E. Marietta
Street
Daily
6am-11pm
New play structure/Toddler swings
Picnic tables/Gazebo
