Canton's Claim to Fame

Did you know a humble Ohio city holds the esteemed title of being the official home of professional football's greatest legends? On April 27, 1961, the National Football League formally recognized Canton, Ohio, as the site for the Pro Football Hall of Fame, solidifying its pivotal role in the sport's history. The very next day, the Dover Daily Reporter captured the local excitement with the headline, "Canton Selected Site for Pro Football’s Hall of Fame by NFL," a testament to the community's triumph.

But Canton's connection to the NFL runs much deeper than just hosting its Hall of Fame. It was right here, in an unassuming automobile showroom on September 17, 1920, that the very foundation of the National Football League was laid. This historical significance fueled Canton's passionate bid to become the Hall of Fame's home. Months prior to the official announcement, a determined local group had already secured a 14-acre plot, envisioning a place where the legacy of the game could be enshrined. Adding to this rich tapestry, the well-established Fawcett Stadium, a local high school venue, was incorporated into the Hall of Fame campus for years to come, further cementing Canton's enduring legacy in the annals of professional football history.