Chippewa County, Michigan
Chippewa County is a county located in the Upper Peninsula of the U.S. state of Michigan. As of the 2020 census, the population was 36,785. The county seat is Sault Ste. Marie, which is also the largest city in the county. Chippewa County is known for its historical significance, particularly as the site of the Soo Locks, and its natural beauty, with vast forests and access to Lake Superior.
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History
Chippewa County was established in 1826, making it one of the earliest counties in Michigan. It is named after the Ojibwa (Chippewa) people, who are native to the region and have a rich cultural history in the Great Lakes area. The area was originally a vital center for fur trading and later became a key hub for shipping and transportation with the construction of the Soo Locks in the mid-19th century.
The county played a significant role in Michigan's early development, particularly in shipping and trade due to its strategic location on the St. Marys River. The completion of the Soo Locks in 1855 facilitated the movement of ships between Lake Superior and the lower Great Lakes, cementing Sault Ste. Marie’s importance as a transportation hub.
Geography
According to the United States Census Bureau, Chippewa County has a total area of 2,698 square miles, of which 1,558 square miles is land and 1,140 square miles (42.3%) is water. It is one of Michigan’s largest counties by total area. The county is located in the eastern part of the Upper Peninsula and is bordered by:
- Mackinac County to the south
- Luce County to the west
- Algoma District, Ontario to the north, across the St. Marys River
Key geographic features include:
- **Lake Superior**: The northern edge of the county is defined by Lake Superior, offering scenic views and recreational opportunities.
- **St. Marys River**: Forms the border between Michigan and Ontario and contains the Soo Locks, a critical piece of infrastructure for Great Lakes shipping.
- **Drummond Island**: Part of Chippewa County, this island is a popular destination for outdoor recreation and wildlife observation.
Economy
Chippewa County’s economy is based on shipping, tourism, and natural resource industries. Major sectors include:
- **Shipping and Transportation**: The Soo Locks are a key driver of the local economy, supporting shipping and trade between Lake Superior and the lower Great Lakes.
- **Tourism**: Attractions like the Soo Locks, Drummond Island, and outdoor recreational activities draw visitors year-round.
- **Forestry**: The county’s vast forested areas support logging and timber production.
- **Education and Government**: Lake Superior State University in Sault Ste. Marie is a significant employer, as are local government and public service agencies.
Communities
Chippewa County includes one city, several villages, and numerous townships.
- Sault Ste. Marie (city): The county seat and largest city, known for its historic downtown, the Soo Locks, and Lake Superior State University.
- De Tour Village (village): Located near the eastern tip of the Upper Peninsula, providing access to Drummond Island.
- Kinross Charter Township (unincorporated): A growing community and the site of the Chippewa County International Airport.
Townships
Chippewa County is divided into 16 townships:
- Bay Mills Township
- Bruce Township
- Chippewa Township
- Detour Township
- Drummond Township
- Dafter Township
- Garden Township
- Hulbert Township
- Kinross Township
- Pickford Township
- Raber Township
- Rudyard Township
- Soo Township
- Sugar Island Township
- Superior Township
- Whitefish Township
Parks and Recreation
Chippewa County offers numerous parks and recreational opportunities, including:
- **Soo Locks Park**: Located in Sault Ste. Marie, this park provides views of the locks and educational exhibits about their history.
- **Drummond Island**: Offers hiking, kayaking, and off-road vehicle trails, as well as hunting and fishing opportunities.
- **Tahquamenon Falls State Park**: Partially located in Chippewa County, this park is known for its stunning waterfalls and extensive hiking trails.
Demographics
As of the 2020 census, Chippewa County had a population of 36,785. The population is predominantly White, with significant Native American and smaller African American and Hispanic communities. Sault Ste. Marie is the largest urban center, while the rest of the county is primarily rural.
Education
Chippewa County is served by several school districts:
Higher education opportunities include:
- Lake Superior State University: A public university located in Sault Ste. Marie, offering a range of undergraduate programs.
Transportation
Chippewa County is served by several major highways:
- Interstate 75: Runs north-south through the county, connecting Sault Ste. Marie to Mackinac Bridge and lower Michigan.
- M-28: An east-west highway providing access to nearby counties.
The Chippewa County International Airport offers regional air travel services, and the county also has ferry services to Drummond Island.
See Also
References
- United States Census Bureau. "QuickFacts: Chippewa County, Michigan."
- Michigan Department of Natural Resources. "Tahquamenon Falls State Park."
- Romig, Walter. Michigan Place Names. Detroit: Wayne State University Press, 1986.
