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The Canton Ferry is the longest continually operating ferry service on the Mississippi River. The first known ferry service began operation a few miles north of Canton around 1844. This ferry carried on a prosperous business providing not only local transportation, but also serving as a gateway to the west for many covered wagon caravans and gold seeking forty-niners.

Early Canton ferries were powered by two horses walking on treadmills connected to paddlewheels. Today the Canton ferry is powered by two 195 horsepower V-6 diesel engines.

On Feb 24, 1853 the first recorded Canton ferry service charter was granted to Christian University (now Culver-Stockton College). This ferry was called the Lewis-Adams presumably named after the two immediate counties served... Lewis County, MO. & Adams County IL... Fares set-forth by this initial charter were; Footmen 10c. Team and Wagon 50c.

Attractions and Upcoming Events

Lincoln School

An old one room brick school house located in Martin Park, one of three remaining segregated schools that finally closed in the 1950s.

Canton, MO Historic Buildings

Canton Ferry

The Canton Ferry is the longest continually operating ferry service on the Mississippi River. The first known ferry service began operation a few miles north of Canton around 1844

Canton, MO Tours

Lock & Dam No. 20

Large navigational waterway structure on the upper Mississippi River, One mi. above Canton. Has a dam 40 tainter gates and 3 roller gates. It locks 35,000,000 tons of cargo per year.

Canton, MO Recreation

Remember When Toy Museum

The world's largest known collection of Marx toys and other antique toys from the last century.

Canton, MO Museums

Lake of the Oaks

Recreational living year-round or weekend getaway. Enjoy amenities, 3/4-mi. long lake, sand beach, swimming, boating, fishing, lovely wooded area. Make the water's edge your own.

Canton, MO Recreation

Things to do near Canton, MO

River Heritage and Visitor Center

Optical Science Center & Museum

Light show, optical science demonstrations, hands-on learning fun, hundreds of glasses on display, indoor theatre, fun for th...

American Legion Golf Course

Course Access: PublicHoles: 9Reserve Advance Tee Times: Yes...

Clarksville Museum

Riverfront Campground

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