Canton

Canton

Canton, a town of about 4,200 people, is set along the banks of the Pigeon River in the eastern part of the county. Incorporated in 1837, Canton is home to a historic paper mill and the historic Colonial Theater. Several annual events—the Mountain ‘Mater Festival, Pickin' in the Park, a Labor Day celebration, a festival of lights during the holiday season, and a nighttime Christmas parade—have become popular among local residents and visitors alike. Canton native Fred Chappell, an author, poet and professor, served as the poet laureate of North Carolina from 1997 to 2002. In 2007, Old River Outdoor Adventures opened on the Pigeon River just south of Canton and offers guided kayak trips, tubing adventures and swimming opportunities. Two of the worlds largest sapphires have been found in Canton's Old Pressley Sapphire Mine, now open to visitors. Haywood's oldest church, now First Baptist Church in Canton, was established in 1801 as Locust Old Fields Church. Canton has attracted acts like the Charlie Daniels Band and the Beach Boys in recent years.