Sault Ste. Marie

This city, the oldest in the Midwest, grew up about the mission of Fathers Dablon and Marquette, founded in 1668 on the banks of the rapids through which Lake Superior’s waters commence their long journey seaward. In 1641 Fathers Jogues and Raymbault of Sainte Marie Mission, near Georgian Bay, came here and applied the name Sault de Sainte Marie, or “rapids of Saint Mary,” to the waters. Popular usage shortens it to “the Soo.”

Plaque via Michigan History Center