Formerly known as Mill #1, the factory was built in 1900 and actively produced denim until 1981. Mill #1 along with its sister factory, Mill #2 (collectively Canton Cotton Mills) are a vital part of the history of Canton and were the main source of employment for the residents. The factories produced valuable denim cloth that was known for its durability. They consistently improved manufacturing to create a top of the line product that was used in World War II. Production began to decrease in the 1970’s and eventually the Canton Cotton Mills were closed in 1981.

Mill #1 was founded and financed by Robert Tyre Jones and his family re-purposed the building to serve as warehouse and production space for local tenants for the next three decades. In 2018, the property was purchased by a group of local developers with intent to revitalize the structure and honor the history of Canton. The vision is to activate the riverfront with signature restaurants, unique retail spaces and creative office and event space.