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Canton, IL

Frequently asked questions

Canton, IL

Canton is the largest city in Fulton County, Illinois, United States. The population was 13,242 at the 2020 census, down from 14,704 at the 2010 census. The Canton Micropolitan Statistical Area covers all of Fulton County; it is in turn, part of the wider Peoria–Canton, IL Combined Statistical Area (CSA).

Canton is located in northeastern Fulton County at 40°33′28″N 90°02′03″W. Illinois Routes 9 and 78 pass through the downtown together. IL 9 leads east 8 miles (13 km) to Banner near the Illinois River and west 27 miles (43 km) to Bushnell, while IL 78 leads north 10 miles (16 km) to Farmington and south 11 miles (18 km) to Little America in the Illinois River valley.

According to the 2010 census, Canton has a total area of 8.063 square miles (20.88 km²), of which 7.9 square miles (20.46 km²) (or 97.98%) is land and 0.163 square miles (0.42 km²) (or 2.02%) is water.

Canton was founded in 1825 by settler Isaac Swan, who believed his new town and Canton, China, were antipodes. Swan, his infant child, and three other people died in the devastating tornado of June 1835. "Isaac Swan and his child were found in the wreckage of their cabin, the baby dying in its mother's arms," leading some to conclude that the tornado represented divine retribution for the city allowing a circus performance the previous week. The city was hit by a F-3 tornado on July 23, 1975. Two people were killed, and the storm deemed the 1975 Canton Tornado, caused major damage to the downtown area.

Much of the city, particularly the northern portion, has been undermined by room and pillar extraction of coal that took place in the 1800s. Central Illinois Energy, a locally financed cooperative, began planning for a corn-fermentation ethanol plant in 2002. Construction and finance delays resulted in its opening in 2007, approximately 4 miles (6 km) south of the city. Beset by financial problems and construction delays on the plant, the cooperative declared bankruptcy. Central Illinois Energy's assets were bought by a private company. Construction was completed, and the plant began production in the summer of 2008. It was renamed Riverland Biofuels.

Health and wellness are essential aspects of life in Canton, IL. The Graham Hospital, a leading healthcare facility in the region, plays a crucial role in providing comprehensive medical services to the community. Explore the parks, facilities, and programs the Canton Park District offers. These spaces provide opportunities for outdoor activities such as walking, jogging, sports, and picnicking. Join local fitness centers and gyms to participate in exercise programs, fitness classes, and strength training. Some popular options include YMCA and MTZ Fitness. Discover the walking and biking trails in and around Canton, such as the Lakeland Outer Loop and Big Creek Trail. These trails offer opportunities for outdoor exercise and enjoyment of nature.

The top sites in Canton, IL are Canton Area Heritage Center, Wee-Ma-Tuk Hills Country Club, and Starved Rock State Park.

Population: 13,242 (2020). ZIP Code: 61520. Area code: 309. Elevation: 640 ft (200 m). Area: 8.01 sq mi (20.76 km²).

FAQs

What is Canton, IL, known for?

Canton is home to the legendary Alice Ingersoll Gymnasium, otherwise known as the Palace of Alice. Alice Ingersoll was a Canton-area philanthropist and donated the money to construct the gym. What sets this particular gymnasium apart from others is it’s not located at the high school. It’s a few blocks from Canton’s downtown.

Is Canton, IL a good place to live?

Living in Canton offers residents a sparse suburban feel and most residents own their homes. In Canton, there are a lot of bars. Many retirees live in Canton and residents tend to lean conservative.

Is it expensive to live in Canton, IL?

Canton is 11% less expensive than the national average and 12% less expensive to live in than the average city in Illinois. This assumes a $72,000 annual salary and a 2-bedroom Apt. Food costs in Canton are more affordable than average in the United States. Transportation costs in Canton are as affordable than average in the United States.

Sources

Wikipedia

City of Canton

Graham Hospital

Canton Park District 

YMCA 

MTZ Fitness

Lakeland Outer Loop 

Big Creek Trail

Canton Area Heritage Center

Blessings Primitives

Wee-Ma-Tuk Hills Country Club

Starved Rock State Park

Canton Daily Ledger

Niche

Erieri

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