Chippewa County
Chippewa County, Michigan is a county located in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan, along the border with Ontario, Canada. As of the 2020 census, the county's population was 37,661. The county seat is Sault Ste. Marie, which is also the oldest city in Michigan. Chippewa County is known for its natural beauty, maritime heritage, and the strategic importance of the Soo Locks, which connect Lake Superior to the lower Great Lakes.
History
Chippewa County was established in 1826 and is one of the oldest counties in Michigan. The county was named after the Ojibwa (Chippewa) people, the indigenous inhabitants of the region. French explorers and fur traders were among the first Europeans to arrive in the area, with Sault Ste. Marie being founded as a mission by French Jesuits in 1668.
The completion of the Soo Locks in 1855 marked a turning point in the county's history, facilitating the transport of goods and natural resources from Lake Superior to the lower Great Lakes. This development contributed to the economic growth of the region and its emergence as a hub for shipping, logging, and fishing.
Geography
According to the United States Census Bureau, Chippewa County covers a total area of 2,698 square miles, of which 1,558 square miles is land and 1,140 square miles (42%) is water. The county's location on the shores of Lake Superior and Lake Huron makes it a significant part of Michigan’s Great Lakes region.
Chippewa County includes several islands, such as Drummond Island, Neebish Island, and Sugar Island. The county is also home to forests, wetlands, and rivers, offering diverse ecosystems and outdoor recreation opportunities.
Notable geographic features include:
- Soo Locks, a critical passage for ships traveling between Lake Superior and Lake Huron.
- Tahquamenon Falls State Park, located near the county’s western border.
- St. Marys River, forming the boundary between Michigan and Ontario.
Economy
The economy of Chippewa County is driven by tourism, shipping, and public service. The Soo Locks are a major driver of economic activity, supporting both commercial and recreational navigation. Tourism is significant, with visitors drawn to the county’s natural attractions, historic sites, and access to outdoor activities such as fishing, boating, and snowmobiling.
Other economic contributors include agriculture, small manufacturing, and government employment, including the presence of Lake Superior State University in Sault Ste. Marie.
Communities
- Sault Ste. Marie (city): The county seat and largest city, known for its rich history, the Soo Locks, and Lake Superior State University.
- Kinross (census-designated place): Home to the Chippewa County International Airport and Kinross Correctional Facility.
- Drummond Island (unincorporated): A popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
Townships
Chippewa County is divided into 23 townships, including:
- Bay Mills Township
- Bruce Township
- Chippewa Township
- Drummond Township
- Kinross Township
- Pickford Township
- Rudyard Township
- Sugar Island Township
- Whitefish Township
Demographics
As of the 2020 census, Chippewa County had a population of 37,661. The population is predominantly White, with significant Native American communities, particularly near the Bay Mills Indian Community and Sault Tribe of Chippewa Indians reservations. The county also has a mix of urban, suburban, and rural areas.
Points of Interest
- Soo Locks, a major engineering marvel and tourist attraction.
- Tahquamenon Falls State Park, one of Michigan’s most iconic natural sites.
- Great Lakes Shipwreck Museum at Whitefish Point.
- Bay Mills Indian Community, offering cultural and gaming attractions.
- Lake Superior State University, providing educational and cultural opportunities.
See Also
References
- United States Census Bureau. "QuickFacts: Chippewa County, Michigan."
- Michigan Department of Natural Resources. "Chippewa County Parks and Recreation."
- Romig, Walter. Michigan Place Names. Detroit: Wayne State University Press, 1986.