The Canton Historical Museum, located in the Downtown Collinsville section of Canton, Connecticut, opened its doors in 1970.

This large three-story building was built in 1865 by The Collins Company, world re-known manufacturer of axes, machetes and 1,300 different edge tools from 1826–1966.
From the 1860s to the early 1920s, Collins painted and shipped out their cast iron plows. When the John Deere tractor became popular, the building was converted to a recreation center for its employees and their families, with a Reading Room, Lunch Room, Shooting Gallery, and six Bowling Alleys upstairs.
It is now the home of a vast collection of artifacts, which include Collins Company history; Victorian and Civil War era items; local Native American tools; a General Store; Bridal Salon; Train Diorama; Children’s Room; Fire Engine and equipment, as well as Farm tools and Band instruments. There is something here of interest for the whole family. Adults and children alike will marvel at the large Train Diorama on the top floor, built and maintained by the Farmington Valley Railway Association. It depicts Downtown Collinsville and the Collins Company factory buildings, circa 1903, with several trains, which can operated by pushing a button.
The Gallery of Trees is an annual event, and has become a tradition for families and friends. Businesses and individuals donate decorated trees, which are put on display for three weeks from mid-November to about the first week of December with extended opening hours during that time. Attendees can come in for free to view the trees, and have the option of purchasing tickets to try to win one. This has been a wonderful fund-raising event, which helps keep our Museum going each year.
Museum hours are weekends from 1–4 p.m., but special tours may be arranged with advance notice by emailing us (select General Information). Normally, the Museum will close for the months of January & February, but we can also accommodate special tours during that time.
If you are interested in becoming a Volunteer, or need help in researching ancestors or other subjects in our Museum Library, please send us an email (select General Information).
if you would like to become a member, renew your membership or make a donation, please visit our Support Canton Historical Museum page.
Thank you, and we look forward to you visiting our wonderful Museum!
Kathy Taylor, President