Marquette’s Seven Grandfather Teachings Monument Pays Tribute to Upper Peninsula’s Indigenous Heritage

A new public art installation near the old ore dock in Marquette pays tribute to the area’s indigenous history. Artist Jason Quigno sculpted seven Kona Dolomite and Green Basalt boulders to represent the Seven Grandfather Teachings, which are the foundational principles of the Anishinaabe culture. This latest addition to Marquette’s vibrant arts scene is part of the large Shoreline Cultural Trail, which runs from the Carp River to Presque Isle Park. These beautifully carved boulders remind us that long before industry came to the area in the 1800s there were people who called this area home, and it is important to see that their stories are represented well.

The Seven Grandfather Teachings Monument can be found where the Founders Landing boardwalk meets E. Baraga Ave. Here you can get a great view of Marquette’s famous ore dock, or take a short walk out on the pier to check out the glass-bottom viewing station. There is a canoe and kayak launch located here as well for those who prefer to take in the views from out on the water. Here’s a look at each of the stones and what they represent:

Bravery (Zoongide’ewen)

Truth (Debwewin)

Humility (Dabasendiziwin)

Wisdom (Nibwaakaawin)

Love (Zaagi’idiwin)

Respect (Manaaji’idiwin)

Honesty (Gwayakwaadiziwin)

This is a great addition to Marquette’s continuously evolving arts scene, and we cant wait to see what else gets added to the Shoreline Cultural Trail. It was a bit surprising to see no interpretive signage at the site yet telling more about what each stone represents, and we thank MQT Compass for providing the background information on the artist and installation. You can see more of Jason Quigno’s art at the Gerald R. Ford International Airport in Grand Rapids, in downtown Saugatuck and Douglas, downtown Grand Rapids, and many more locations.