Canton North Carolina - January 2026

These are images exploring the theme of “Rust Belt Gothic,” towns scattered across America where the decline of former industry looms in the shadows. Canton was home to the Champion paper mill, which closed in 2023. It’s slated to be demolished, but at the moment the former paper mill towers over the town. Like other former mill towns, the town square is tightly laid out and walkable. New businesses are starting to occupy the vacant store fronts.