Nestled in the heart of Stark County, North Canton, Ohio, is a city rich with industrial heritage, community spirit, and a deep connection to American history. Once a small village known for its manufacturing prowess, North Canton has grown into a thriving suburban city with a unique story to tell. From vacuum cleaners to wartime contributions, North Canton’s past is filled with fascinating milestones that continue to shape its identity today.
In this post, we explore the Top 7 Historical Facts that define North Canton and showcase why this Ohio city holds an important place in regional—and even national—history.
1. North Canton Was Originally Called “New Berlin”
The Backstory:
North Canton was originally founded as New Berlin in 1831, named in honor of the German heritage of its early settlers.
Why It Changed:
During World War I, anti-German sentiment swept across the United States. As a result, many American communities with German names chose to change them. In 1918, the residents of New Berlin voted to rename their town North Canton to show patriotism and distance themselves from Germany during wartime.
Legacy:
This name change marks a moment when local and global politics collided and reflects the community’s willingness to evolve with the times.
2. North Canton Was the Home of the Hoover Company
The Backstory:
In the early 1900s, North Canton became internationally known as the home of the Hoover Company, which revolutionized the household appliance industry, especially vacuum cleaners.
Founded by:
William “Boss” Hoover and his wife Susan originally ran a leather goods store. In 1908, Hoover bought the patent for an electric suction sweeper and turned it into a global product. The Hoover Company soon became one of the largest employers in the region and a major economic driver for the city.
Significance:
- Hoover vacuums became a household staple across the U.S. and abroad.
- North Canton’s nickname for years was “The Vacuum Cleaner Capital of the World.”
- The legacy of the Hoover Company continues to influence the city’s identity and economic landscape.
3. The Hoover Family’s Civic Contributions Helped Build the City
Beyond Business:
The Hoover family wasn’t just influential in business—they were also deeply invested in the community.
Key Contributions:
- Hoover High School: Named in honor of the family’s contributions to education and civic life.
- Hoover Park and the Hoover Historical Center: These public spaces celebrate the company’s history and the family’s generosity.
- Philanthropy: The Hoovers supported churches, schools, recreational programs, and city beautification efforts.
Legacy:
The Hoover name is still widely recognized throughout the city as a symbol of civic responsibility and local pride.
4. North Canton Played a Role in the WWII War Effort
The Backstory:
During World War II, the Hoover Company converted its manufacturing to support the U.S. war effort.
War-Time Production:
- Produced helmet liners, bomb fuses, and airplane parts.
- Over 800 employees from Hoover served in the armed forces.
- Local residents participated in scrap drives and rationing programs to support the troops.
Legacy:
The city’s industrial capacity and community spirit were vital to national defense, and this era left a lasting impression of patriotism and resilience on North Canton’s identity.
5. Home to Walsh University
The Backstory:
In 1960, the Brothers of Christian Instruction founded Walsh College, later renamed Walsh University, on farmland donated by the Hoover family.
Why It Matters:
- Walsh has grown into a respected Catholic liberal arts university with over 2,500 students.
- It has played a central role in education, research, and community service in the region.
- The university hosts events, lectures, and academic programs that enrich the cultural life of North Canton.
Legacy:
Walsh University symbolizes North Canton’s commitment to higher education and serves as a bridge between the city and global academic networks.
6. Incorporated as a City in 1962
The Backstory:
Although North Canton was settled in the 19th century, it was officially incorporated as a city in 1962 following the post-WWII population boom and suburban development.
Why It Matters:
- The incorporation marked a turning point from a factory-based town to a suburban residential community.
- It enabled the creation of a more structured local government and long-term planning.
Legacy:
Today, North Canton is a full-service city with its own police, fire, water, and school systems. Its incorporation ensured a stable foundation for future growth.
7. The Hoover Historical Center Preserves North Canton’s Story
The Backstory:
Located in the Hoover family’s original Victorian home, the Hoover Historical Center is a museum that chronicles both the history of the Hoover Company and the evolution of North Canton.
Highlights:
- Exhibits on the first vacuum cleaner prototypes.
- Displays about the Hoover family’s role in civic life.
- Artifacts from the city’s early settlement days and WWII contributions.
Why It Matters:
- The center serves as a cultural anchor and educational resource for locals and visitors.
- It hosts tours, school programs, and community events.
Legacy:
The preservation of this history ensures that new generations understand the roots of their community and the innovations that put North Canton on the map.
Final Thoughts
From its humble beginnings as New Berlin to its industrial heyday and transformation into a modern city, North Canton’s story is one of innovation, resilience, and civic pride. Its contributions to American industry, education, and wartime efforts are not just footnotes in history—they are the pillars that continue to support a vibrant and forward-looking community.
Whether you’re a longtime resident, a new neighbor, or a visitor exploring Stark County, the history of North Canton offers a fascinating glimpse into how small cities can leave a big mark on the world.
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