Priesthood Frederic Baraga

baraga street located near catholic church on madeline island. baraga once operated mission on island.

in 1837, published otawa anamie-misinaigan, first book written in ottawa language, included catholic catechism , prayer book. after brief stay @ mission in present-day grand rapids, michigan, in 1835 baraga moved north minister ojibway (chippewa) indians @ la pointe, wisconsin, @ former jesuit mission on lake superior.

in 1843 baraga founded mission @ l anse, michigan. during time earned nickname “the snowshoe priest” because travel hundreds of miles each year on snowshoes during harsh winters. worked protect indians being forced relocate, publishing dictionary , grammar of ojibway language. although these works have important historical value, not recommended basic resources language today.

through texts baraga published in missionary years, slovenes learned aspects of native american culture , united states.