Canton, SD

Since the founding of our communities, organizations, businesses and citizens have stepped forward to build and serve their community. Click on any of the logos below to learn about those who made this website possible! If you would like to learn about becoming a sponsor CLICK HERE!

As the county seat of Lincoln County, Canton plays an important role in providing services, entertainment, employment and education to residents, visitors and businesses. Take a few minutes to read through the Canton Visitor and New Resident Guide to learn about the great services, parks, amenities and fun things to do while you are here.

One of the oldest communities in the Dakota Territory, the City of Canton was organized in 1861 when permanent settlers first came to Canton. The name Canton was chosen because it was believed that the town site was located directly opposite of Canton, China. Organizers thought the Chinese spelling meant “gateway,” and Canton was known as Gate City for many years.

In 1868, many Norwegian immigrant families moved to Canton to settle, which more than doubled the population of Lincoln County. Only 11 years after the establishment of Canton, in August of 1872, initial issues of one of the first newspapers in the Dakota Territory, The Sioux Valley News were published. Col. Arthur Linn owned the original printing press and transported it to Canton by wagon.

The railroads in Canton have always been key to our successful agricultural business. Still in use today, they continue to be critical to agricultural in Canton. The original depot building has been restored and is home to the Canton Visitor Center and Chamber of Commerce, open Monday through Thursday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.