Canton Historical Tour

Canton's own Jimmy Murray, with his corn-cob pipe and Irish Brogue, is just one example of Canton's significance in New York's history. He led a double life - infamous for his drunkenness yet revered for his the masonry. As one of the primary builders of Saint Lawrence University, his role in Canton history is unprecedented. So is his folly. In one amusing tale, Murray, having fallen on the job, arrived at an upscale social gathering at the President's (of St. Lawrence) house reeking of mortar - a testament to his inebriation. His ambivalence made him legendary.

Today, the legacy of Canton's favorite drunk continues. Paintings of the town wino stain the walls of New York City bars and lounges more than a century after its conception. To this day, Jim Murray's "business meets pleasure" disposition, painted by Eddy Murray - a canton native as well, hovers over week night lushes lavishing their liquers. His soul has transcended time.

To learn more about the major players in Canton's history, their haunts, and Linda Casserly, the town historian, explore the links on Murray's face…

Links:

Click right eye for "Can you believe this architecture?" by Kerry Banazek

Click left eye for Far From Asia by Trisha McMahon

Click the smoke pipe for Remembering...by Steve Peraza

Click the center of Jim's hat for Holding on to History by Stephanie Wilkins

Click on Synopsis (written text) for This Life, This Place Syllabus

Web Guru: Steve Peraza

Sound Queen: Trisha McMahon

Photo Phenom: Stephanie H. Wilkins

Writing Wizardette: Kerry A. Banazek

Synopsis:

***On Monday, February 12, our group had the opportunity to visit Canton's Municipal Building. We met with Linda Casserly, the town historian, and toured our college town. Many of the facts we learned gave us a new perspective on Canton, New York and its beautiful, yet sad, history. We have created a website to highlight the ups and downs of quiet, but interesting, place.***

For further investigation,

here are some

Additional Links to check out: