Over Ohio
Canton, Ohio • Aerial Photography
Canton, Ohio is a city in Stark County, located in the northeastern part of the state of Ohio, United States. It is best known as the birthplace of the National Football League (NFL) and the home of the Pro Football Hall of Fame.
Canton was founded in 1805 by Bezaleel Wells and James Hill, who named it after Canton, China. The city quickly became a center for the manufacturing of agricultural equipment, particularly plows, and by the mid-19th century, it had become a major industrial center, with iron and steel production playing a significant role in the city's economy.
In the late 1800s, Canton's population began to grow rapidly, and by 1900, it had become the largest city in Stark County. During this time, the city also became a hub for the labor movement, with strikes and protests being common occurrences.
In 1920, Canton became the birthplace of the National Football League, when a group of team owners met in the city to establish the league. The Pro Football Hall of Fame was established in Canton in 1963, and it has since become a major tourist attraction, drawing visitors from around the world.
Today, Canton is home to a diverse population of over 70,000 people. The city has a vibrant downtown area, with a variety of restaurants, shops, and cultural attractions, including the Canton Museum of Art and the Palace Theatre.
Canton has also become a center for healthcare and education, with several major hospitals and universities located in the area. The city is home to Stark State College and Malone University, as well as branches of Kent State University and Stark County District Library.
Despite the challenges faced by many Midwestern cities in recent years, Canton has continued to thrive and reinvent itself. It remains a proud and resilient community, with a rich history and a bright future.
