📍 Location & Geography
Canton is a town in Norfolk County, Massachusetts, United States. The town is situated in the northeastern part of the county and is bordered by the towns of Dedham, Westwood, Norwood, Sharon, Stoughton, and Milton. Canton is approximately 15 miles southwest of downtown Boston. The town is primarily suburban in nature with both urban and rural characteristics.
🌎 Coordinates
The geographic coordinates of Canton, Massachusetts are approximately 42.1584° N latitude and 71.1448° W longitude.
🗺️ Region & Area
Canton is part of the Greater Boston area, a region in Massachusetts that includes most of the eastern part of the state. The town spans an area of 19.6 square miles, of which 18.9 square miles is land and 0.7 square miles is water.
👥 Population & Demographics
As of the 2020 census, Canton had a population of approximately 23,768 people. The racial makeup of the town is predominantly White, with a significant Asian population and smaller numbers of African American, Hispanic, and other racial and ethnic groups. The median age in Canton is around 43 years, and the town has a slightly higher percentage of female residents than male.
🏛️ History
Canton was officially incorporated on February 23, 1797 from the town of Stoughton, Massachusetts. The name “Canton” was suggested as a tribute to the Chinese city, which was known for its role in the tea trade. The town played a significant role in the American Industrial Revolution with the establishment of the Canton Viaduct in 1835, which is still in use today.
🏞️ Nature & Environment
Canton is home to several parks and nature preserves. The Mass Audubon’s Museum of American Bird Art is a unique combination of art museum and wildlife sanctuary, while the Blue Hills Reservation offers hiking and skiing opportunities. The town is also part of the Neponset River Watershed, which provides important wildlife habitat and recreational opportunities.
🏫 Education
Canton Public Schools serves the town, with one high school, one middle school, and three elementary schools. For higher education, Massasoit Community College has a campus located in Canton. The town also houses the Massachusetts Hospital School, a public school serving students with severe physical disabilities.
🚧 Transportation
Canton has two MBTA stations, Canton Junction and Canton Center, on the Providence/Stoughton Line, providing rail access to Boston and other parts of Massachusetts. Major roads include Interstate 95, U.S. Route 1, and Massachusetts Route 138. The town is also served by the Norwood Memorial Airport, located just north of Canton.
📜 Trivia & Events
Canton is the headquarters of several notable companies, including Dunkin’ Donuts, Computershare, and Organogenesis. The town also hosts an annual Winterfest in February, featuring a variety of winter-themed activities and events. The Canton Historical Society maintains the Canton Corner Historic District, which includes several historic buildings and sites.