The historic homes on the Water Street Historic Block are operated through a cooperative effort between the Chippewa County Historical Society, Sault Historic Sites, & the City of Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan.
Artifacts in the homes are from the collections of the Chippewa County Historical Society. Many items on display were originally owned by the Johnston family.
The Johnston House & Henry Rowe Schoolcraft office located on the Water Street Historic Block in Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan give visitors a first hand look into the lives of the early fur traders & settlers by providing a historically accurate portrayal of their homes & lives.
Visitors to the Water Street Historic Block can tour the home of John Johnston, one of the first European settlers to the area. The office of Henry Rowe Schoolcraft, the first Indian Agent to the area is also on display.
In 2007, the Kemp Coal Company office will open featuring a museum devoted to the industrial history of Sault Sainte Marie.
Johnston, a native of Ireland, emigrated to Canada in 1785 & made a very successful living in the fur trade. He was married in 1793 to Ozhahguscodaywayquay, daughter of Waubojeeg, the leader of the Chippewa. The couple moved to Sault Ste. Marie in 1793 where they constructed a home, part of which is currently on display.
In addition to historic displays, the Water Street Historic Block offers programming by local performers & artisans.