Canton Historical Museums: A Glimpse into Collinsville's Past

Step back in time at the Canton Historical Museums, where you can explore the captivating history of Canton and Collinsville, Connecticut. Housed in one of the original Collins Company buildings, the museum complex features three floors of exhibits that bring the 19th century to life.The Canton Historical Society formed in 1966, opening the Canton Historical Museum in 1970 to preserve local history. The museum's collection began with Fred Widen, a pattern maker at the Collins Company, who gathered artifacts and memorabilia to preserve the town's heritage.Explore exhibits brimming with artifacts, including Collins Company tools, Victorian antiques and clothing, and recreations of a general store, barber shop, post office, and blacksmith shop. The Farmington Valley Model Railroad Society also has an HO train diorama of 1900 Collinsville on display. The Canton Historical Museums offer a tangible connection to the past, providing insights into the lives and industries that shaped the community.The museum will reopen March 1, 2025, with new exhibits, including Gems & Minerals of Connecticut and Collecting Artifacts from the “Great European War”.