When Sugar Island Almost Became the United Nations Headquarters

A Vision for Global Diplomacy on Sugar Island

In the aftermath of World War II, as the League of Nations gave way to the newly formed United Nations. At that time discussions began about where this global organization’s headquarters would be located. Among the many proposals, a surprising contender emerged: Sugar Island, located in the St. Marys River between Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan, and Ontario.

Sugar Island’s Bid for the UN Headquarters

In the summer and fall of 1945, former Michigan Governor Chase Osborn championed the vision of Sugar Island becoming home to the United Nations. Supported by the twin cities of Sault Saint Marie, Michigan, and Ontario, the proposal emphasized the island’s peaceful location on the unfortified U.S.-Canada border—a symbol of 130 years of harmonious coexistence.

On December 7, 1945 Mayor Maurice Hunt of Sault, Michigan, and Mayor William J. McMeeken of Sault, Ontario, submitted the formal proposal. They offered the entire 33,000-acre Sugar Island—dubbed “International Island” for the bid—as a home for the UN. Mayor Hunt highlighted the area’s rich history, calling it the “heart of the country of Hiawatha,” and noted how the peaceful relationship between the United States and Canada could inspire the world.

Strong Backers and International Competition

Justice Frank Murphy, a former Michigan governor and Supreme Court justice, lent significant support to the bid, presenting it to the UN Preparatory Committee in London. Despite strong backing, Sugar Island faced stiff competition, including sites along the Maine-New Brunswick border and Navy Island near Niagara Falls.

In December 1945, the committee decided the UN Headquarters would be located in the United States, boosting Sugar Island’s chances. However, the Preparatory Committee ultimately recommended a location near New York or Boston, eliminating Sugar Island from the running. On January 10, 1946, Mayor Hunt received a cablegram from London expressing gratitude for the proposal but confirming its rejection.

A Missed Opportunity but a Remarkable Legacy

While the United Nations ultimately chose New York City, Sugar Island’s bid remains a fascinating chapter in history. The twin Soos’ vision of their shared border as a symbol of peace and diplomacy still resonates as a reminder of the aspirations of small communities to influence global affairs.

Learn more about the rich history of the Eastern Upper Peninsula.

Marisa Fancy along with her husband and four children dreamt of moving “Up North”. They had vacationed for years in northern Michigan and in 1995 they finally made the move.

The family was always out exploring, but with 4 kids there was some limitations on what they could do. Marisa discovered the amazing network of trails in Northern Michigan after Steve died and she would walk for miles. The trails provided her with peace, comfort and solitude at a difficult time in her life. Later, after meeting Guy who would become her second husband, she learned to golf and found another passion she could enjoy in beautiful Northern Michigan.

Marisa has been the family historian, writer, and poet for as long as she can remember. She has always loved to write and has now found a creative outlet for it other than family. You can read her articles in Adventures in Northern Michigan, Northern Michigan History and Golf Up North.