SAULT STE. MARIE -- Those looking to learn a bit more about the Sault's rich history will be able to do so with the help of a new app.
The city is launching its local "On This Spot," an app that takes users on a self-guided tour, to compare historical spots in the city's history to what they look like today.
"It's a really fun way to help showcase the city in a new light, with things you may never have seen before," said William Hollingshead, executive director at the Sault Ste. Marie Museum.
"It highlights our attractions, as well, and is a good way to engage people and get people to come here and just show that we're modern and relevant, and possibly attract a younger audience."
Hollingshead says there are four walking tours available right now: walks along Queen Street, the waterfront, a view of the Sault rapids and some of the many murals in the city's downtown core.
"This is the perfect opportunity to make our history readily available and accessible and is a big moment for the city," he said.
Hollingshead says the museum took the lead on the project, but partnered with the city and Downtown Association to make it happen.
"I think this will also help showcase some of our local businesses and provide a much needed boost for some," said Ashlyn McMillan, manager at the Downtown Association. "Our hope is to give people the option to purchase tickets for things, like the bush plane museum or the canyon tour, as they go to visit it on their own personal tours."
McMillan says she hopes educators will also utilize the app as it catches on.
"There's nothing better than for teachers to take their students through history in an interactive way like this," she said.
Right now, the app is taking on a soft launch, but Hollingshead said the plan is to eventually add more tours and activities.
On This Spot is free to download on any Apple or android device.
