Bishop Baraga

A Wealthy Beginning: Born June 29, 1797, in Slovenia, Frederic Baraga was highly educated in law, languages, and the arts.

Ordination: He entered the seminary in 1821 and was ordained on September 21, 1823.

A New Direction: Despite a secure future as a pastor in his homeland, he felt called to American missionary work in 1828.

First Missions: Baraga arrived in Cincinnati in January 1831 and quickly began working with the Indians of lower Michigan at Arbre Croche (Harbor Springs).

Language Master: Though he initially used an interpreter, he soon mastered the Ottawa and Chippewa languages.

The Printed Word: In 1832, he published his first Indian Prayer Book in Detroit to better share his message.

Upper Michigan and Beyond: By 1832, he expanded into Upper Michigan, and by 1836, his work reached Wisconsin and Minnesota.

The L’Anse Mission: After years of persistent invitations from settler Pierre Crebassa, Baraga established the mission at L’Anse in 1843.

Holy Name of Jesus: In 1845, he dedicated the Holy Name of Jesus Church at the site now known as Assinins.

Purchasing Land: Bishop Baraga purchased over 500 acres of land in the names of the local Native Americans, securing their status as landowners to prevent their removal.

First Bishop: In 1853, Frederic Baraga was elevated to become the first Bishop of Upper Michigan.

A Legendary Title: To visit his vast jurisdiction during heavy snowfall, the Bishop traveled on foot. His ability to trek over 700 miles in a single winter earned him the title "Snowshoe Priest".

Enduring Legacy: Today, his name is preserved through Baraga County, the village of Baraga, and the historical shrine that overlooks the lands he served.