History of Sault Sainte Marie, Ontario, Canada

Sault Ste. Marie - After the visit of Étienne Brûlé in 1623, the French called it "Sault de Gaston" in honour of Gaston, Duke of Orléans, the brother of King Louis XIII of France.

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In 1668, French Jesuit missionaries renamed it as Sault Sainte Marie, and established a mission settlement (present-day Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan) on the river's south bank.
Later, a fur trading post was established and the settlement expanded to include both sides of the river. Sault Ste. Marie is one of the oldest French settlements in North America.
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War of 1812 - Since the Americans were unable to capture Fort Mackinac, the British forces retained control of Sault Ste. Marie.

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1869 - Sault Ste Marie
Sault Ste Marie. - The County Town of the District of Algoma, is situated on the north shore of St. Mary's River, at the foot of the rapids which obstruct navigation from Lake Huron to Lake Superior, which are, however, overcome by a canal constructed on the United States side of the river. The town settled by the French in 1668, is a port of entry, and now numbers, 400 inhabitants, consisting principally of French Canadians and half-breeds. The mode of travel during the summer months is by steamer from Collingwood, distance about 370 miles, fare $8.50. The minerals of this section of the province consist of iron, lead, copper, silver, gold, nickel and cobalt ; the chief products, wheat and all kinds of grain, lumber, furs, etc., fish and game are abundant. Government lands are worth 20 cents per acre, and improved about $10. There is a Roman Catholic chapel, and priest in attendance, with a large congregation. Protestant services are held in the Court House and school house, the... Read MORE...

In 1870, the United States refused to give the steamer Chicona, carrying Colonel Garnet Wolseley, permission to pass through the locks at Sault Ste Marie

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Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario was incorporated as a town in 1887

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In order to control their own water passage, the Canadians constructed the Sault Ste. Marie Canal, which was completed in 1895.

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1895 - Sault Sainte Marie
Sault Sainte Marie, a post-village and port of entry of Ontario, capital of the district of Algoma, on St. Mary's Strait, opposite Sault Sainte Marie, Micm. The rapids at this place have a descent of 22 feet in less than a mile, and form the natural limit of steamboat navigation; but a canal has been cut around them on the American side. The village is pleasantly situated, and has 3 churches and 5 stores. Many of the inhabitants are engaged in the fur-trade and the fisheries. Sault Sainte Marie is the seat of the Anglican bishop of Algoma, and of the Roman Catholic bishop of Northern Canada. P. 400.
Lippincott's Gazetteer of the World: A Complete Pronouncing Gazetteer Or Geographical Dictionary of the World Containing Notices of Over One Hundred and Twenty-five Thousand Places ... Joseph Thomas January 1, 1895 J.B. Lippincott

Sault Ste. Marie gained brief international notoriety in 1911 in the trial of Angelina Napolitano, the first person in Canada to use the battered woman defense for murder.

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Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario was incorporated as a city in 1912

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Sault Ste. Marie has something for everyone. Here's a list of places to go and things to do in this charming Canadian city:
1. Sault Ste. Marie Canal National Historic Site:

Start your visit with a trip to the Sault Ste. Marie Canal National Historic Site. It's not only historically significant but also offers picturesque views of the St. Marys River. You can take a guided tour to learn about the canal's history and its role in shaping the region.

2. Agawa Canyon Tour Train:

One of the most popular attractions in Sault Ste. Marie is the Agawa Canyon Tour Train. This scenic train ride takes you through the breathtaking landscapes of the Algoma region, including forests, lakes, and waterfalls. The journey is especially stunning in the fall when the foliage is ablaze with vibrant colors.

3. Canadian Bushplane Heritage Centre:

For aviation enthusiasts and history buffs, the Canadian Bushplane Heritage Centre is a must-visit. It showcases the history of bush flying in Canada and features an impressive collection of vintage aircraft. Interactive exhibits make it a great place for both adults and... Read MORE...