Mansfield Mine Location Historic District
Stream Rd., Mansfield, MI Local significance of the district: Industry; Exploration/settlement; Architecture
Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 1983.
About National Register Listings
The National Register of Historic Places is the official list of the Nation’s historic places worthy of preservation. Authorized by the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966, the National Park Service’s National Register of Historic Places is part of a national program to coordinate and support public and private efforts to identify, evaluate, and protect America’s historic and archeological resources.
Michigan is the only state to have two designated "state stones": the Petoskey Stone, which is the state stone of Michigan, and the Isle Royale Greenstone, which is the state gemstone of Michigan. The Petoskey Stone is a fossilized coral that is found primarily in the northern Lower Peninsula, while the Isle Royale Greenstone is a rare mineral found only on Isle Royale in Lake Superior.
About Iron County
Iron County Timeline
Iron County, MI, located in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan, has a rich history that dates back to the mid-19th century. The region was originally inhabited by the Ojibwa Native American tribe, who relied on the area's abundant natural resources for hunting and fishing.
The discovery of iron ore deposits in the region in the 1840s marked a significant turning point for Iron County. The first iron mine, named the Carp River Forge, was established in 1848, attracting miners from all over the country. This led to the rapid development of mining towns like Iron River, Crystal Falls, and Stambaugh, which became crucial centers for iron and timber industries.
In the late 1800s, Iron County experienced a boom in population and economic growth. The mining industry continued to expand, and numerous mines were established, including the famous Chapin Mine, which became one of the largest iron mines in the county. Supporting industries, such as lumbering and logging, also flourished, supplying the necessary resources for mine operations.
However, the prosperity of Iron County's mining and timber industries dwindled in the 20th century. The closure of many mines and the depletion of timber resources led to a decline in employment opportunities and population. Efforts were made to diversify the local economy, with tourism and recreational activities gaining significance. The county's beautiful natural landscapes, including lakes, forests, and waterfalls, attracted visitors seeking outdoor adventures.
Today, Iron County continues to cherish its mining heritage while embracing the opportunities brought by tourism and outdoor recreation. Historical sites and museums offer a glimpse into the county's past, and natural attractions invite visitors to explore the stunning wilderness of the region. Though impacted by economic shifts, Iron County retains a unique identity shaped by its iron mining legacy and the resilience of its community.
The discovery of iron ore deposits in the region in the 1840s marked a significant turning point for Iron County. The first iron mine, named the Carp River Forge, was established in 1848, attracting miners from all over the country. This led to the rapid development of mining towns like Iron River, Crystal Falls, and Stambaugh, which became crucial centers for iron and timber industries.
In the late 1800s, Iron County experienced a boom in population and economic growth. The mining industry continued to expand, and numerous mines were established, including the famous Chapin Mine, which became one of the largest iron mines in the county. Supporting industries, such as lumbering and logging, also flourished, supplying the necessary resources for mine operations.
However, the prosperity of Iron County's mining and timber industries dwindled in the 20th century. The closure of many mines and the depletion of timber resources led to a decline in employment opportunities and population. Efforts were made to diversify the local economy, with tourism and recreational activities gaining significance. The county's beautiful natural landscapes, including lakes, forests, and waterfalls, attracted visitors seeking outdoor adventures.
Today, Iron County continues to cherish its mining heritage while embracing the opportunities brought by tourism and outdoor recreation. Historical sites and museums offer a glimpse into the county's past, and natural attractions invite visitors to explore the stunning wilderness of the region. Though impacted by economic shifts, Iron County retains a unique identity shaped by its iron mining legacy and the resilience of its community.
Iron County Timeline
This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Iron County, Michigan.
- 1600s: Native American tribes, including the Ojibwa, Ottawa, and Potawatomi, inhabit the area that will later become Iron County, MI.
- 1830s: European settlers begin to arrive in the region and establish fur trading posts.
- 1840s: The present-day Iron County is part of a larger territory known as Ontonagon County.
- 1871: Iron County is officially established, with Crystal Falls as its county seat.
- 1880s-1890s: The discovery of iron ore deposits leads to rapid growth and development in Iron County.
- 1900s: Iron mining continues to be the primary industry in the county, attracting more settlers and immigrants to the area.
- 1915: The Michigan-Wisconsin Power Company constructs hydroelectric dams on the Paint and Michigamme Rivers, providing electricity to Iron County.
- 1930s: The Great Depression causes a decline in iron mining operations, leading to economic challenges for the county.
- 1950s-1960s: Iron County experiences a resurgence in mining activities with the expansion of existing mines and the opening of new ones.
- 1980s-1990s: The decline of the domestic steel industry results in a decrease in iron mining operations and a loss of jobs in Iron County.
- 2000s: The county focuses on diversifying its economy by promoting tourism, recreation, and small-scale industries.