39 Facts About Sault Ste. Marie

Sault Ste. Marie: A City with Rich History

Nestled in Ontario, Canada, Sault Ste. Marie is a city brimming with fascinating history and culture. Let's dive into some intriguing facts about this unique place.

1. 01Sault Ste. Marie is one of the oldest settlements in North America, with roots dating back over 2,000 years.
2. 02The name "Sault Ste. Marie" means "Saint Mary's Rapids" in French, referring to the nearby St. Marys River rapids.
3. 03Indigenous peoples, including the Ojibwe, originally inhabited the area, calling it "Baawitigong," meaning "place of the rapids."
4. 04French explorers Étienne Brûlé and Samuel de Champlain visited the area in the early 1600s, marking the beginning of European influence.
5. 05The city was officially founded in 1668 by French Jesuit missionaries, making it one of the earliest European settlements in Canada.

Natural Wonders and Scenic Beauty

Sault Ste. Marie is not just about history; it also boasts stunning natural landscapes and outdoor activities.

6. 06The city is located on the St. Marys River, which connects Lake Superior to Lake Huron.
7. 07The International Bridge links Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario, with its sister city, Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan, USA.
8. 08The area is known for its beautiful fall foliage, attracting tourists from all over to witness the vibrant colors.
9. 09The nearby Lake Superior Provincial Park offers breathtaking views, hiking trails, and opportunities for wildlife spotting.
10. 10The Agawa Canyon Tour Train takes visitors on a scenic journey through the rugged Canadian Shield, especially popular during autumn.

Engineering Marvels

Sault Ste. Marie is home to some impressive engineering feats that have shaped its development.

11. 11The Sault Ste. Marie Canal, completed in 1895, was the world's longest lock system at the time.
12. 12The canal was designated a National Historic Site of Canada in 1987.
13. 13The Soo Locks, located on the American side, are among the busiest in the world, facilitating the passage of over 7,000 vessels annually.
14. 14The International Bridge, opened in 1962, spans 2.8 kilometers and is a vital transportation link between Canada and the USA.
15. 15The city is also home to the Algoma Steel plant, one of the largest steel producers in Canada.

Cultural and Artistic Hub

Sault Ste. Marie has a vibrant cultural scene, with numerous festivals, museums, and artistic endeavors.

16. 16The Art Gallery of Algoma showcases local and national artists, offering a diverse range of exhibitions.
17. 17The Ermatinger-Clergue National Historic Site preserves two of the oldest stone buildings in the region, dating back to the early 19th century.
18. 18The city hosts the annual Bon Soo Winter Carnival, one of Ontario's largest winter festivals.
19. 19The Algoma Fall Festival celebrates arts and culture with performances, workshops, and exhibitions.
20. 20The Canadian Bushplane Heritage Centre features interactive exhibits on aviation and forest fire management.

Sports and Recreation

Sports enthusiasts will find plenty to enjoy in Sault Ste. Marie, from hockey to outdoor adventures.

21. 21The city is home to the Soo Greyhounds, a major junior ice hockey team in the Ontario Hockey League.
22. 22The Essar Centre, now known as the GFL Memorial Gardens, is a multi-purpose arena hosting sports events and concerts.
23. 23The St. Marys River offers excellent fishing opportunities, particularly for salmon and trout.
24. 24The Hiawatha Highlands provides cross-country skiing and snowshoeing trails during winter.
25. 25The Voyageur Trail, part of the Trans Canada Trail, offers hiking and biking paths through scenic landscapes.

Educational Institutions

Sault Ste. Marie is also a center for education, with institutions that cater to a wide range of academic interests.

26. 26Algoma University, established in 1965, offers undergraduate programs with a focus on liberal arts and sciences.
27. 27Sault College, founded in 1965, provides vocational training and applied arts programs.
28. 28The Shingwauk Residential Schools Centre at Algoma University preserves the history and legacy of residential schools in Canada.
29. 29The city has several public and private schools, ensuring quality education for its residents.
30. 30The Ontario Forest Research Institute conducts research on forest management and conservation.

Unique Local Attractions

From quirky landmarks to unique experiences, Sault Ste. Marie has plenty to offer.

31. 31The Bushplane Museum allows visitors to explore vintage aircraft and learn about firefighting history.
32. 32The Canadian Carver, located on Highway 17, showcases Indigenous art and crafts.
33. 33The Mill Market, a year-round farmers' market, offers local produce, crafts, and artisanal goods.
34. 34The Sault Ste. Marie Museum features exhibits on the city's history, including its industrial and cultural heritage.
35. 35The Roberta Bondar Park and Tent Pavilion hosts concerts, festivals, and community events.

Fun Facts and Trivia

Let's wrap up with some fun and lesser-known facts about Sault Ste. Marie.

36. 36Sault Ste. Marie is known as the "Gateway to the North" due to its strategic location.
37. 37The city has a population of approximately 73,000 people.
38. 38The Sault Ste. Marie International Marathon attracts runners from around the world.
39. 39The city's nickname is "The Soo," a term of endearment used by locals and visitors alike.

Sault Ste. Marie's Hidden Gems

Sault Ste. Marie is more than just a border town. From its rich history to stunning natural beauty, there's always something new to learn. Did you know it's home to the oldest stone building in Michigan? Or that the Soo Locks are one of the busiest in the world? These facts barely scratch the surface.

Whether you're a history buff, nature lover, or just curious, Sault Ste. Marie offers a unique blend of attractions. The International Bridge connects two countries, while the local cuisine offers a taste of both cultures. Don't forget the annual events like the I-500 snowmobile race, which draws crowds from all over.

Next time you visit, take a moment to appreciate the hidden gems that make Sault Ste. Marie special. You'll leave with a deeper understanding and maybe a few stories to tell.