History of North Canton

A Bit of North Canton History...

North Canton has a rich history, one that has encouraged growth both in the city and surrounding areas.

The Community of North Canton first began as the Village of New Berlin in 1831. The first 23 lots were established at an angular intersection of Market Street, now called Main Street, and Portage Street. New Berlin was the first village to be plotted in Plain Township, one of the original townships created when Stark County was organized in March of 1809. Even though the residents were primarily of German descent, they decided, during World War I, that the community’s name needed to be changed. In January of 1918, New Berlin became known as North Canton.

Before this time, in 1873, William H. “Boss” Hoover had moved his tannery business from the family farm east of town to the center of the village. There he ran a successful leather business until 1919, when the decision was made to devote full efforts to the manufacturing of vacuum cleaners. By 1933, the Hoover Company was the world’s largest manufacturer of vacuum cleaners.

The Hoovers helped to shape the community of North Canton in a variety of ways. The first community building was a gift, in 1923, by “Boss” Hoover to the citizens of North Canton. Mr. Hoover also helped to establish the library. The financing of Memorial Stadium, which was dedicated in 1946, was also made possible because of The Hoover Company. Because of its strong support, it was only fitting that the school built in 1957 be named Hoover High School. The High School has since been rebuilt on 7th Street in North Canton.

Transportation changes have also impacted the community. Beginning in 1901, Main Street was the location of the Interurban Line which ran between Canton and Akron. In 1914, the street was paved in brick, and soon the streetcar lines were replaced by automobile traffic. In 1946, North Canton gained the convenience of a new airport now called Akron-Canton Regional Airport, which was built west of town. By 1966, transportation convenience was also improved with the completion of the northern section of I-77 between Canton and Akron. Each of these changes encouraged growth.

North Canton has a rich history, one that has encouraged growth both in the city and surrounding areas. It is because of this history, and the firm economic foundation which it has provided, that North Canton will continue to be a successful, desirable community in which to live.

Additional information about the history of the Community is available through the North Canton Heritage Society, at 330-494-4791, or at the Hoover Historical Center, 330-499-0287.

121 S. Main St.
N. Canton, OH 44720
P 330.499.5100
F 330.499.7181

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