Canton Historical Society

08/29/2026

Through a CPA Grant, the Canton Historical Commission is about to rediscover a 262 year-old smallpox cemetery. Read more by clicking the link below.

An important first step in understanding one of Canton’s oldest and least-known historic places took place this week at the Gridley Cemetery , (1764) where an archaeological team from the...

08/21/2026

Sneak Peek: New Discovery Kits Coming Soon!

This summer, our wonderful intern Charlotte has been hard at work creating something special for young history lovers — "Discovery Kits" all about Canton's history! Each kit is themed around what makes our town's story so unique, designed to spark curiosity and get kids excited to dig deeper into the past.

We're excited to give you a first look at what's inside these packs. There's still more to build, but soon you'll be able to check them out right here at the Canton Public Library!

Stay tuned for more updates as the project comes together. 📚

08/18/2026

On August 1802, a 24-year-old English immigrant named James Beaumont produced what local historical records and markers note as the first piece of cotton cloth made in Canton, Massachusetts. While earlier experimental cotton mills and spinning operations existed elsewhere in America (such as in Rhode Island and Beverly, Massachusetts) prior to 1802, Beaumont's local enterprise in Canton stands as a notable milestone in early New England textile manufacturing history.

(Photo in the collection of the Canton Historical Society - James and Abigail Beaumont - circa 1865-1868)

08/18/2026

Canton Journal, August 20, 1897

The people in sight of the hill [Blue Hill] Tuesday night were filled with curiosity at the sight of numerous bright lights wandering about the hill.

It appears that some of the kites used in the scientific experiments broke away with the valuable recording instruments attached, and were found only after a protracted search.

08/18/2026

We do not own this original, but it's a fabulous view of a great place in Canton. Where is it? Circa 1930.

07/26/2026

07/25/2026

A glorious summer evening for live music on the lawn of the Histy.

07/25/2026

Plans for tonight? Join us at the Canton Historical Society at 7:00 PM for our Summer Lawn Concert! Bring a chair or blanket, relax under the evening sky, and enjoy live music, fresh popcorn, ice cream, and homemade old-fashioned lemonade.

It's the perfect way to spend a beautiful summer evening. We hope to see you there!

Join us for a relaxing summer evening of live music on the lawn!On Saturday, July 25, from 7:00 to 9:00 p.m., enjoy the warm, roots-inspired sounds of Frank…

07/13/2026

Do you love to sing? These gentlemen did! Over 100 years ago, on July 13, 1925, the oldest members of the Stoughton Music Society (George Dutton, George Goward, Henry L. Johnson & Rastus Smith) all gathered for this portrait.