A Canton Moment: Retired Firefighter Andrew Johnson

Andrew Johnson has spent his whole life in Canton. He was born on January 24, 1923 and was married for 55 years. His adoring wife passed away 10 years ago. He says a whole lot has changed around here since he was a young boy.

Johnson said, "Back when I was a kid we all used to go swimming in the Mansfield Pond at the end of Pond Street. There was a great soda fountain at the "Danahy Drug Store" where my friends and I would buy candy, ice cream and soda fountain drinks. The schools have all changed as well. I went to the Crane School that used to be where Walgreens is now, and the Gridley School for gardes first through sixth."

Johnson became a firefighter in 1947 when the fire station was on Bolivar Street. He retired in 1987 after 30 years of service.

He is the father of two boys who are married and has four grandchildren. Johnson said, "I can't seem to keep track of how many great grandchildren I have, but I believe it to be four and counting at this point".

Editor's note: Do you know a Canton resident who might have an interesting story to share about growing up or living in Canton. Let us know in the comments section.