County Seat
St. Ignace, nestled along the northern shore of the Straits of Mackinac in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, holds the distinction of being the state’s second-oldest continuous settlement. Incorporated as a village on February 23, 1882, and later as a city in 1883, the city has a rich history that reflects the blend of Native American heritage, French exploration, and the dynamic fur trade economy. Today, it continues to serve as the county seat of Mackinac County and a cherished destination for heritage tourism.
A Gateway Through Time
The history dates back to 1671, when French Jesuit priest Jacques Marquette founded the St. Ignace Mission, naming it for St. Ignatius of Loyola. The mission—a hub for converting Native Americans to Catholicism—was established on the ancestral lands of the Wyandot, Ojibwe, and Ottawa tribes. These tribes had called the region home for thousands of years, forming a rich cultural tapestry long before the French explorers arrived.
As the fur trade flourished, St. Ignace became a bustling center of commerce. The French built Fort de Buade in 1681, which later fell under British control after the Seven Years’ War. Over time, the fur trade declined due to changing European tastes and U.S. trade restrictions, but St. Ignace remained a vital link in the region’s economic and cultural landscape.
The Role of St. Ignace in Exploration
St. Ignace’s strategic location made it a launching point for some of history’s most significant explorations. Jacques Marquette and Louis Jolliet departed from St. Ignace in 1673 on their journey to discover the Mississippi River, traveling by canoe with the help of Métis voyageurs. Later, explorer Louis Hennepin and La Salle passed through on their Great Lakes voyages, further cementing the area’s historical importance.
From Rails to Resorts
The arrival of the Detroit, Mackinac, and Marquette Railroad in 1882 linked St. Ignace to major economic hubs like Detroit, spurring growth in agriculture and timber. By the late 19th century, tourism emerged as a new economic driver, with visitors flocking to the region’s pristine lakeshores and historical landmarks.
Today, St. Ignace continues to thrive as a gateway to Michigan’s Upper Peninsula and Mackinac Island. From its ferry ports to its historic sites, such as the reconstructed Fort de Buade Museum and the St. Ignace Mission, the city offers visitors a unique glimpse into its storied past.
A Blend of Heritage and Modern Charm
St. Ignace is more than its history—it’s a living, breathing community that honors its Native American roots while embracing its role as a modern-day travel destination. As the headquarters for the Mackinac Bands of Chippewa and Ottawa Indians, the city celebrates its indigenous culture through events, art, and local businesses. Heritage tourism blends seamlessly with outdoor recreation, including boating, fishing, and hiking along the rugged beauty of Lake Huron’s shoreline.
St. Ignace: A Timeless Treasure
From its early days as a fur trading post to its status as a beloved tourist destination, St. Ignace stands as a testament to Michigan’s layered history. Whether you’re crossing the Mackinac Bridge, boarding a ferry to Mackinac Island, or simply strolling its historic streets, you’re walking through centuries of stories that have shaped this remarkable city.
