Canton Missouri

Canton, Missouri: A Historic River Town with Small-Town Charm

History of Canton

Canton, Missouri, situated along the Mississippi River in the northeastern part of the state, has a rich history dating back to the early 19th century. This charming river town has played a significant role in the region’s development and continues to be an important part of Lewis County.

• Founded in 1830 by Captain Robert Sinclair.
• Named after Canton, Ohio, the hometown of many early settlers.
• Incorporated as a town in 1851.
• Became an important steamboat landing and trading post on the Mississippi River.
• Survived several major floods, including the Great Flood of 1993.
• Home to Culver-Stockton College, founded in 1853 as Christian University.
• Played a role in the Civil War, with both Union and Confederate sympathizers in the area.
• Developed a diverse economy based on river trade, agriculture, and education.

Neighborhoods of Canton

While Canton is a small city, it has distinct areas that contribute to its character:

• Downtown Historic District: The heart of Canton, featuring 19th-century architecture and local businesses.
• Riverfront: The area along the Mississippi River, including the levee and river access points.
• College Hill: The area surrounding Culver-Stockton College, known for its scenic views.
• Residential Areas: Quiet streets lined with a mix of historic homes and newer constructions.
• South Canton: A primarily residential area with some newer developments.

Notable Attractions

Canton offers several attractions that appeal to both residents and visitors:

• Culver-Stockton College: A private liberal arts college with a beautiful hilltop campus.
• Lewis Street Playhouse: A community theater hosting various performances throughout the year.
• Canton Heritage Center: A museum showcasing the city’s rich history.
• Mississippi River Front: Offering scenic views and recreational opportunities.
• Fourth Street Historic District: A well-preserved area of 19th-century homes and buildings.
• Canton Waterfront Park: A popular spot for community events and river activities.
• Martin Community Center: A hub for local gatherings and recreational activities.

Statistical Data

Key statistics about Canton, Missouri:

• Population: Approximately 2,500 residents as of the 2020 census.
• Land Area: About 3.15 square miles (8.16 km²).
• Elevation: 538 feet (164 m) above sea level.
• Median Age: Around 36 years old.
• Median Household Income: Approximately $40,000 (as of recent estimates).
• Education: Served by the Canton R-V School District and home to Culver-Stockton College.
• Climate: Humid continental, with hot summers and cold winters.
• Economy: Based on education, agriculture, small businesses, and some light industry.
• Distance from Major Cities: About 150 miles north of St. Louis and 30 miles north of Hannibal.

List of Things to Do in Canton

1. Visit the Culver-Stockton College campus and enjoy its hilltop views.
2. Explore the Downtown Historic District and its 19th-century architecture.
3. Attend a performance at the Lewis Street Playhouse.
4. Learn about local history at the Canton Heritage Center.
5. Enjoy recreational activities at Canton Waterfront Park.
6. Take a stroll through the Fourth Street Historic District.
7. Participate in community events at the Martin Community Center.
8. Go fishing or boating on the Mississippi River.
9. Attend the annual Canton Cruise Night car show.
10. Visit local shops and restaurants in the downtown area.
11. Enjoy outdoor activities at Fox Valley Lake Recreation Area.
12. Attend a Culver-Stockton College sports event.
13. Participate in the annual Lewis County Fair.
14. Take a scenic drive along the Great River Road.
15. Visit nearby Wakonda State Park for nature activities.

Points of interest near Canton

Airports

• The Adwell Corporation Airport
• Meeker Airport
• Schnelle Airport
• Caldwell Airport
• Lewis County Regional Airport-6m6
• Lewis County Rgnl
• H Meeker Airport

Churches

• First Baptist Church, which is on 407 North 6th Street, Canton.
• Life Tabernacle, which is on 31460 Missouri 16, Canton.
• Canton Christian Church, which is on 512 College Street, Canton.
• St. Peter’s Lutheran Church, which is on 300 South 7th Street, La Grange.
• Ursa Christian Church, which is on 102 Frederick Street, Ursa.
• Zion Church, which is on 107 Smith Street, Ursa.
• Redeemer Baptist Church, which is on 405 Lewis Street, Canton.
• Immanuel United Methodist Church, which is on 601 Washington Street, Canton.

Fire Stations

• Ursa Fire Protection District, which is on Ursa.
• R-V Fire Protection District, Canton Station, which is on 213 Clark Street, Canton.
• La Grange Community Fire Association, which is on 704 Route C, La Grange.
• R-V Fire Protection District Canton Station #2, which is on Canton Township.
• Lima Fire Department, which is on Lima.

Universities

• Culver-Stockton College, which is on 1 College Hill, Canton.
• Henderson Hall, which is on Henderson Hall, Canton.
• All Faith Chapel, which is on 1 College Hill, Canton.
• Herrick Foundation Center, which is on Canton.
• Johnson-Turner IDEA Center, which is on Canton.
• Meaders Lounge, which is on Culver Road, Canton.
• Gladys Crown Student Center, which is on 1 College Hill, Canton.

Stadiums

• Himsl Field, which is on Activities and Recreation Center, Canton.
• Ellison A. Poulton Stadium, which is on Joe Charles Fieldhouse, Canton.

Secondary Schools

• Canton High School, which is on 200 South 4th Street, Canton.
• Cedar Falls School, which is on 19481 State Highway B, Canton.

Parks

• Wakonda State Park, which is on 32836 State Park Road, La Grange.
• Bear Creek Public Use Area, which is on Ursa.
• Central Park, which is on 101-199 South 5th Street, Canton.
• Community Garden, which is on 510 Clark Street, Canton.
• Martin Park, which is on 606 South 4th Street, Canton.
• Mississippi Park RV Campgrounds, which is on 700 North Front Street, Canton.
• Upper Mississippi Lock and Dam 20, which is on Canton.
• Veterans Memorial Park, which is on 1002 Brose Avenue, Canton.
• Sunnyside School Access Conservancy Area, which is on Co Rd 552 aka, Sunflower Street, La Grange.
• Lazy Dayz Campground, which is on 19430 State Highway P, Canton.
• Washington Park, which is on 5th Street, La Grange.

Museums

• Golden Age Toys / Remember When Toy Museum, which is on 19481 State Highway B, Canton.

City halls

• La Grange City Hall, which is on 118 Main Street, La Grange.

Govt offices

• Village of Ursa, which is on 107 South Warsaw Street, Ursa.
• City of Canton, MO, which is on 400 Lewis Street, Canton.
• Canton City Collections, which is on 106 North 5th Street #2, Canton.
• Canton Port Authority, which is on Canton.
• Canton Water Plant, which is on 32366 130th Street, Canton.
• Maintenance Building, which is on 700 State Highway C, La Grange.
• Hunt Drainage Pumping Station, which is on 46 North Co Road 150, Warsaw.

Nearby Towns and Suburbs

• Meyer is 1 mile to the north-east.
• Santuzza is 5 miles to the north.
• La Grange is 6 miles to the south.
• Benjamin is 6 miles to the west.
• Durgen is 7 miles to the south-west.
• Laura is 7 miles to the north-west.
• Marcelline is 8 miles to the east.
• Lima is 8 miles to the north-east.
• Rock Creek is 8 miles to the south-east.
• Ursa is 8 miles to the south-east.
• Weber is 9 miles to the south-west.
• Sellers is 9 miles to the south-west.
• Derrahs is 10 miles to the north-west.
• Monticello is 10 miles to the west.
• Gregory Landing is 10 miles to the north.
• Tioga is 10 miles to the north-east.