Canton Mississippi was incorporated in 1836 and is known as the "Movie Capital of the South". The town's famous Madison County Courthouse, built in 1855, plays host to one of the South's largest events held each May and October - the Canton Flea Market. Other Canton events include the Victorian Christmas Festival, the Madison County Championship Hot Air Balloon Race, and the Canton Gospel Fest Homecoming with award-winning musical groups in Gospel, Blues and Jazz. Best Western Canton Mississippi.
Things to do in Canton
Canton Movie Museums
The Canton Movie Museums include sets for John Grisham's "A Time to Kill," and Willie Morris' "My Dog Skip." Located at 141 North Union Street in Canton MS. Call 800-844-3369 for more information.
Canton Multicultural Center & Museum
The Canton Multicultural Center & Museum is a multimedia interactive museum featuring interviews on topics ranging from slavery, civil rights, early African American businesses, education, family and music. Included is an exhibit on Sister Thea Bowman. The museum is located at 141 North Union Street. Best Western lodging is nearby. Call 800-844-3369 for more information.
Hickory Street Area
The Hickory Street area of Canton was the location of several of Madison County's early African-American owned businesses. Bluesman Elmore James played at a club here in the 1940's and 1950's. Tolliver's Cafe was a favorite of the railroad men who frequented it and talked of it when they traveled. Located at Hickory Street. Call 601-859-1307 for more information.
Historic Home Tours
Tours of three historic homes: The Tilda Bogue, c. 1830, a restored story-and-a-half dogtrot home; The Mosby Home, c. 1852-65, a Greek Revival structure; and The Long Moss Plantation House, c. 1844, a story-and-a-half Greek Revival planters cottage. A brochure is available from the Canton Welcome Center. The tours are offered year round, by appointment only. Located at 141 N. Union Street in Canton. Call 601-859-1307 for more information.
Historic Train Depot and Museum
The Depot was built in 1890 and in 1926 the north and south buildings were added. The Illinois Central Railroad Company owned and maintained the depot until 1991. Today, the building serves as a museum, and reflects the history of Madison County and how the "iron horse" affected social and economic growth and development in Canton and beyond. Call 601-859-4733 for more information.
Howcott Monument
This 20-foot gray obelisk was built between 1894 and 1900 by William Hill Howcott, to honor his body servant, Willis Howcott, a faithful servant and friend who followed him into battle and was killed. Open year round for drive by viewing only. Located at E. Academy Street. Call 601-859-1307 for more information.
Madison County Courthouse
Built in 1855, this Pre-Civil War courthouse is located in the heart of downtown Canton. It is also the heart of the Canton Flea Market, held each year in May and October. Located in the Historic Town Square. Best Western lodging is nearby. Call 601-859-1307 for more information.
Old Jail Museum
Built in 1870, this red brick building was used as the county jail for over 90 years. It is located at 234 E. Fulton Street and is open year round. Call 601-859-1307 for more information.
Sister Thea Bowman House
This is a 1900 traditional shotgun bungalow, home of Sister Thea Bowman, the well-known author, evangelist, teacher and lecturer. It is open year round and located at 136 Hill Street. Call 601-859-1307 for more information.
Wells School of Arts and Crafts
The Wells School is the rebirth of the historic Allison's Wells Resort and Art Colony which existed from 1879 to 1963 when destroyed by fire. The School is based upon the teaching ideas that began with the old art colony combined with the new and exciting ones. Summer art classes for children, meeting space for Allison's Wells Quilters, Magnolia Wood turners Association and specialty classes in arts and crafts are all held here. Do not miss the twice-annual showing of MS Art Colony's Traveling Show. Located at 141 N. Union Street. Call 601-859-5826 for more information.