History & Culture

Copper has shaped the people and places on the Keweenaw Peninsula for thousands of years. Early native peoples began mining and using copper here over 7,000 years ago. After Europeans arrived in the area, they learned of the copper resources from the Ojibwa people. English attempts at mining began in the 1700s but at first were unsuccessful. By the 1840s however, the setting was finally ripe for "copper fever" to take hold, creating one of the first mineral mining rushes in the United States.

Though many mining ventures quickly played out, some were successful at creating an enduring industry in the remote Keweenaw Peninsula. For over 100 years, the copper mining industry played a role in shaping the lives and landscapes of people and communities. Here you can explore their stories.

Labor is a Common Thread That Connects All National Parks

 
Sunset in winter
Historical Architecture

Explore the Keweenaw's historic architecture.

A large rectangular hole in the ground surrounded by tools.
Archeology

Understand how we learn about people of the Keweenaw's past through what they left behind.

Brick C&H Warehouse Number 1
Museum Insider

Check out our Museum Insider publications

Four people sit on and just off of the front porch of a house.
People

Discover the colorful characters of the Copper Country.

A large industrial complex at the foothills of a large hill situated along a waterway.
Places

Explore the historic and natural landscapes found on the Keweenaw Peninsula.

Illustrated 1881 map of Calumet & Hecla property and the Village of Red Jacket
Copper Mining Timeline

Explore a timeline of Michigan copper mining from over 7,000 years ago to the present.

Historic photo of miners on rock pile
Working Wednesdays

Learn about the variety of occupations that kept the Keweenaw busy in the past.

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Sites of Conscience

Learn about what Sites of Conscience are.

A person with gloves on opens an old book.
Collections

Explore the past through museum and archival collections.

Last updated: August 31, 2023

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Contact Info

Mailing Address:

25970 Red Jacket Road
Calumet, MI 49913

Phone:

906 337-3168

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