Popular television shows emphasize gutting and demolishing buildings to make them "new again." The Union Building’s extreme makeover shows the research and care that historic preservation takes in returning the dilapidated to its former grandeur.

Long winters and heavy snowfalls challenge even the best built buildings on the Keweenaw Peninsula. Neglect and design faults further jeopardized the Union Building’s survival. Water came through a leaky roof causing the third floor ceiling to collapse, damaging the floors below. Without gutters, water ran freely down the exterior walls, eroding mortar and crumpling brick work. To save this structure connected with the area’s copper mining history, Keweenaw National Historical Park purchased the Union Building in 1999.

Park staff first conducted extensive research on the building. Analysis of historic photos showed details and character defining features that had been altered or were no longer visible. Documents provided an understanding of the building’s construction and evolution. Research and analysis helped determine historically appropriate paint schemes and wood finishes. This information assisted staff in creating a rehabilitation plan for the building.

In April 2005, Keweenaw National Historical Park began the $1.9 million exterior rehabilitation project. Over the next seven months contractors installed a new roof and gutters, like the one shown at the left to improve drainage. The third floor ceiling was stabilized. Upgraded electrical service, fire suppression and security systems were installed. The first floor was made accessible through a side entrance. Improvements were made to landscaping and exterior lighting.

To restore the Union Building’s historic appearance, appropriate color schemes were applied. The storefront, cornice and finials were reconstructed. Replicas of fraternal organization lamps were installed. The imprint of the sign painted on the side of the building for the Keweenaw Printing Company was retained so that the building’s significant stories could be interpreted.

Though much has already been done, more work is necessary before the building is ready for public use. The damaged third floor ballroom needs repair. Accessibility for the second and third floors is required. Upgraded heating and lighting is also needed. When funding is available, the National Park Service will start preparing the building for use as an interpretive center to help visitors understand life in a copper mining community. When this makeover is complete, the Union Building will still have the best features of its old self and new ones to take it into the future.

Learn about the Union Building's interior rehabilitation project