This week in Canton history...

CANTON HERALD-July 21, 1960:

The wildest show east of the Pecos is going to be revealed Thursday, Friday and Saturday Nights at the Canton Rodeo Arena, according to reports being released by the Fair Association. That is when the “Western Week” rodeo in Canton will be unreeled before the people of Canton and Van Zandt County.

As Western Week progresses a visitor to Canton can see some of the remains of the old West… For instance have you seen the beard of Alvin Norman, Chili Campbell, Harold Stevens, A. L. Scott, Jr. and Jake Slaughter…Just to name a few of the rough customers.

Harold Stevens, manager of the Canton Farm Products Company told the press he is setting up an old time bar at his firm’s location, offering a slug of cider to anyone visiting it Thursday, Friday or Saturday.

Mrs. Amanda Williams Hubbard was born January 4, 1873, in the Willow Springs community near Canton. She died July 14 at the age of 87 years and seven months. She was the daughter of the late John and Martha Williams.  She was married to Henry Dave Hubbard, May 7, 1893. To this union nine children were born, two dying in infancy. She reared four stepchildren with the same loving care as her own. Her life was devoted to her husband and family. Mr. Hubbard preceded her in death on July 23, 1947. She had been in failing health several years. During her active life she was ever ready with a helpful hand to those in need and her kindness and sympathy were extended to all who knew her.

Mrs. Hubbard was the oldest member of the Jackson Baptist Church at the time of her death. Last rites were read in the Jackson Baptist Church by Rev. John B. Trant and L. E. Carpenter. Interment was in Old Bethel Cemetery under the direction of Eubank Funeral Home.

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