Louis Joliet Collection

EXPL2A-00194
Father Jacques Marquette holding a peace pipe to greet Native Americans during his journey to the upper Mississippi River, 1673. Hand-colored woodcut of a 19th-century illustration

French settlement of the Great Lakes, 1600s
French Jesuit map of Lake Superior, Upper Michigan, and Wisconsin, 1600s. Hand-colored woodcut of a 17th-century illustration

EXPL2A-00195
Jacques Marquette and Louis Joliet on the upper Mississippi River in canoes 1673. Hand-colored woodcut of a 19th-century illustration

EXPL2A-00256
French missionary and fur traders carrying a canoe at a portage in North America. Hand-colored woodcut of a 19th-century illustration

EXPL2A-00266
Jacques Marquette and Louis Joliet in a canoe on the upper Mississippi River, 1673. Hand-colored halftone of a 19th-century illustration

EXPL2A-00127
Father Marquette and Louis Joliet, the first white men on the upper Mississippi River, 1673. Hand-colored woodcut of a 19th-century illustration

EXPL2A-00113
Marquette and Joliet meeting Native Americans in Illinois during their exploration of the upper Mississippi River region, 1670s. Hand-colored woodcut of a 19th-century illustration

Home of Louis Joliet in old Quebec
Home of Louis Joliet in the Petit Champlain district of old Quebec City. Digital photograph

Memorial for Louis Joliets home in old Quebec
Memorial plaque, in English, at Louis Joliets home in old Quebec City. Digital photograph

Louis Joliet memorial plaque in old Quebec
Memorial ifor Louis Joliet in old Quebec City. Digital photograph

Wisconsin River junction with the Mississippi
Wisconsin River joining the Mississippi River, first explored by Marquette and Joliet, 1673. Photograph

Wisconsin River near its Mississippi River junction
Wisconsin River, seen from bluffs near its junction with the Mississippi River, first taken by Marquette and Joliet in 1673. Photograph

Fox River near Princeton, Wisconsin
Fox River, taken by Marquette and Joliet to reach the Mississippi, 1673. Photograph

Fox River, Wisconsin
Fox River, taken by Marquette and Joliet to reach the Mississippi, 1673. Photograph

EXPL2A-00257
Death of Father Marquette in Michigan, returning from a mission to the Ilinois Indians, 1675. Hand-colored woodcut of a 19th-century illustration

EXPL2A-00329
Louis Joliets map of New France, 1673-1674, including the upper Mississippi River he and Jacques Marquette discovered. Hand-colored halftone reproduction

PEXP2A-00055
Louis Joliet, with his autograph. Hand-colored 19th-century woodcut of an illustration

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Louis Joliet, a prominent figure in the French settlement of the Great Lakes during the 1600s, left an indelible mark on North American history. His explorations and discoveries paved the way for future expeditions and opened up new frontiers. Born in Quebec, Canada, Louis Joliet was driven by a thirst for adventure and knowledge. He embarked on several significant journeys that would shape his legacy. One such expedition took him to the Wisconsin River junction with the mighty Mississippi River - a pivotal moment in his career. Joliet's exploration of this region led to important geographical insights and expanded European understanding of North America's vast waterways. His meticulous observations helped map out uncharted territories, enabling subsequent settlers to navigate these treacherous waters more safely. Back home in old Quebec, where he resided for much of his life, Louis Joliet became an esteemed member of society. Today, visitors can catch glimpses of his historical significance through various memorials dedicated to him. A memorial plaque stands proudly as a testament to his achievements while commemorating his former residence – now known as "Home of Louis Joliet. " The memory lives on not only through physical tributes but also through our collective appreciation for his contributions. As we reflect upon this remarkable explorer's endeavors and their impact on shaping early North American history, we honor his pioneering spirit and unwavering determination. Louis Joliet's legacy continues to inspire generations who seek discovery beyond familiar horizons. His name remains etched in our memories as one who fearlessly ventured into unknown territories – forever leaving an imprint on both land and hearts alike.