The Forgotten History Of Michigan Upper Peninsula

Have you ever heard of the Michigan Upper Peninsula? If not, don't worry – you are not alone. Hidden away in the northern part of the state, the Upper Peninsula often goes unnoticed and is forgotten by many. Yet, this remarkable region has a fascinating history that deserves to be remembered and explored.

Once known as "Superior Country," the Michigan Upper Peninsula is bordered by three Great Lakes – Lake Superior, Lake Michigan, and Lake Huron. It is situated above the more well-known Lower Peninsula and is connected to it by the Mackinac Bridge, which spans five miles across the Straits of Mackinac.

Ancient Inhabitants

The history of the Upper Peninsula dates back thousands of years. Prior to European contact, the region was inhabited by various Native American tribes, including the Ojibwe, Odawa, and Potawatomi. These tribes lived off the land, engaging in hunting, fishing, and gathering to sustain their communities.

True Tales: The Forgotten History of Michigan's Upper Peninsula

by Mikel B Classen(Kindle Edition)

4.8 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	10071 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	164 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE

The Native Americans of the Upper Peninsula had a deep connection to the natural environment. They believed in the importance of living in harmony with nature and respecting its resources. Their wisdom and traditional practices have left a lasting impact on the region's cultural heritage.

Fur Traders and Explorers

In the 17th century, French fur traders and explorers arrived in the Upper Peninsula, lured by the abundance of fur-bearing animals. They established trading posts and formed relationships with the Native American tribes, exchanging goods and knowledge.

The fur trade brought economic prosperity to the region and played a significant role in shaping its early history. The Upper Peninsula became a hub for commerce and cultural exchange between European settlers and Native Americans.

Mining Booms

Fast forward to the 19th century, and the Upper Peninsula experienced a series of mining booms that transformed the region. The discovery of copper and iron ore deposits attracted thousands of prospectors and miners from all over the world.

The mining industry brought immense wealth and new communities to the Upper Peninsula. Towns such as Calumet, Marquette, and Ironwood sprung up, bustling with activity and attracting people seeking employment and a fresh start.

Industrial Decline and Resilience

However, as with many boom-and-bust cycles, the mining industry eventually declined, leaving behind abandoned mines and struggling economies. The Upper Peninsula faced numerous challenges, including population loss and economic stagnation.

But the resilience of the Upper Peninsula residents prevailed. Today, the region has reinvented itself as a tourist destination, capitalizing on its natural beauty and historical sites. Visitors flock to explore the stunning Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, hike in the Porcupine Mountains, and learn about the mining history at the Quincy Mine.

The Enchanting Landscapes

The Upper Peninsula's landscapes are truly captivating. From the dense forests and crystal-clear lakes to the towering sandstone cliffs and picturesque waterfalls, nature lovers are treated to breathtaking scenery at every turn.

Fall brings vibrant colors to the forests, while winter offers opportunities for snowmobiling, skiing, and ice fishing. Spring and summer welcome a myriad of outdoor activities, including boating, fishing, hiking, and camping.

The Forgotten Gem

The Upper Peninsula may be forgotten by many, but it remains a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. Its rich history, stunning landscapes, and resilient communities make it a destination worth exploring.

Next time you plan a trip, consider venturing to the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. Immerse yourself in its forgotten history, soak in the beauty of its landscapes, and appreciate the tenacity of its people. You won't be disappointed.

The Michigan Upper Peninsula might not be on everyone's radar, but its captivating history and breathtaking landscapes make it an unforgettable destination. From ancient Native American inhabitants to French fur traders and the rise and fall of mining booms, the Upper Peninsula's past is filled with stories waiting to be heard.

Today, as the region embraces its role as a tourist haven, visitors have the opportunity to explore the enchanting landscapes, engage with the resilient communities, and discover the hidden gem that is the Michigan Upper Peninsula.

True Tales: The Forgotten History of Michigan's Upper Peninsula

by Mikel B Classen(Kindle Edition)

4.8 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	10071 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	164 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE

What Were Pioneer Days Really Like in the U.P.?

The combination of mining, maritime and lumbering history created a culture in the U.P. that is unique to the Midwest. Discover true stories of the rough and dangerous times of the Upper Peninsula frontier that are as enjoyable as they are educational. You'll find no conventional romantic or whitewashed history here. Instead, you will be astonished by the true hardships and facets of trying to settle a frontier sandwiched among the three Great Lakes.

These pages are populated by Native Americans and the European immigrants, looking for their personal promised land-whether to raise families, avoid the law, start a new life or just get rich... no matter what it took. Mineral hunters, outlaws, men of honor creating civilization out of wilderness and the women of strength that accompanied them, the Upper Peninsula called to all. Among the eye-opening stories, you'll find True Tales includes:

• Dan Seavey, the infamous pirate based out of Escanaba
• Angelique Mott, who was marooned with her husband on Isle Royale for 9 months with just a handful of provisions and no weapons or tools
• Vigilantes who broke up the notorious sex trafficking rings - protected by stockades, gunmen, and feral dogs - in Seney, Sac Bay, Ewen, Trout Creek, Ontonagon and Bruce Crossing
• Klaus L. Hamringa, the lightkeeper hero who received a commendation of valor for saving the crews of the Monarch and Kiowa shipwrecks
• The strange story of stagecoach robber Reimund (Black Bart) Holzhey
• The whimsical tale of how Christmas, Michigan got its moniker
• The backstories of famous pioneers, such as Peter White, George Shiras III, Governor Chase Osborn and many others

This book is a gold mine of vacation possibilities, providing dozens of fascinating little-known facts about many of the innumerable attractions found in Michigan's Upper Peninsula. With the aid of a near countless parade of carefully selected historical images, Mikel paints a picture the reader will not ever forget. -- Michael Carrier, author of Murder on Sugar Island (Jack Handler mysteries)

From Modern History Press