Canton is a city in and the
county seat of
Stark County,
Ohio,
United States. Founded in 1805 alongside the Middle and West Branches of
Nimishillen Creek, Canton became a
heavy manufacturing center because of its numerous railroad lines. However, its status in that regard began to decline during the late 20th century, as shifts in the manufacturing industry led to the relocation or repositioning of many factories. After this decline, the city's industry diversified into
the service economy, including retailing, education, finance and
healthcare.