Sault Ste. Marie

Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario, Canada, has a rich and varied history that spans several centuries. It is one of the oldest settlements in North America, with its history deeply intertwined with the Indigenous peoples, European exploration, and the development of the Canadian nation.

Early Indigenous History

The area around Sault Ste. Marie was originally inhabited by the Anishinaabe peoples, including the Ojibwe, who named the area "Baawitigong," meaning "place of the rapids." The location was significant for its strategic position at the St. Mary's River rapids, a key point for transportation and trade.

European Exploration and Settlement

The French explorer Étienne Brûlé is believed to have been one of the first Europeans to visit the area in the early 17th century. In 1668, French missionaries, including Jesuit Father Jacques Marquette, established a mission at Sault Ste. Marie, making it one of the earliest European settlements in the region.

During the fur trade era, Sault Ste. Marie became an important center for trade between European settlers and Indigenous peoples. The French built a fort and trading post here, and after the British took control in the mid-18th century, the area continued to serve as a hub for the fur trade.

19th Century Developments

In the 19th century, with the decline of the fur trade, the focus shifted to other forms of economic development. The construction of the Sault Ste. Marie Canal, completed in 1895, was a significant event that contributed to the growth of the city. The canal was built to facilitate navigation around the rapids and was one of the longest locks in the world at the time. It played a crucial role in the transportation of goods, especially for the burgeoning steel industry.

20th Century Growth

The establishment of the Algoma Steel Corporation in 1901 marked a major turning point for Sault Ste. Marie’s economy, turning it into an industrial center. The steel industry attracted a diverse workforce, contributing to the city's growth throughout the 20th century.

The city also became a key military site during World War II, with the development of the Algoma Military Base. Post-war, Sault Ste. Marie continued to diversify its economy, investing in tourism and education, including the establishment of Algoma University.

Significant Landmarks

• Sault Ste. Marie Canal National Historic Site: This site commemorates the significant engineering achievement of the canal and its importance to Canadian maritime history.
• The Ermatinger Clergue National Historic Site: This is one of the oldest stone buildings northwest of Toronto and provides insight into the early European settlement in the area.
• Canadian Bushplane Heritage Centre: Celebrates the history of bush flying and forest protection in Canada.
• Roberta Bondar Park: Named after Canada's first female astronaut, who hails from Sault Ste. Marie.

Notable Figures

• Roberta Bondar: Canada’s first female astronaut and a distinguished scientist.
• Francis Hector Clergue: An industrialist who played a crucial role in developing the steel industry in Sault Ste. Marie.

Modern Day

Today, Sault Ste. Marie is a vibrant city that blends its historic roots with modern developments. It remains a key industrial center while also promoting cultural and recreational activities, serving as a gateway to the natural beauty of Northern Ontario.

The history of Sault Ste. Marie is a testament to its strategic importance and adaptability through changing economic and social landscapes.