Historical Marker

Isle Royale National Park

Historical marker location:
Copper Harbor, Michigan
( Marker is at the intersection of Gratiot Street (U.S. 41) and 3rd Street, on the right when traveling east on Gratiot Street.)

  A brief timeline of the history of the National Parks

  • 1872: Yellowstone National Park is established as the first national park in the United States and widely recognized as the first national park in the world.

  • 1890: Yosemite National Park is established in California, protecting its iconic landscapes and natural wonders.

  • 1916: The National Park Service (NPS) is created as a federal agency responsible for managing and preserving national parks. Stephen Mather becomes the first director of the NPS.

  • 1919: Grand Canyon National Park is established in Arizona, safeguarding its immense and awe-inspiring canyon.

  • 1926: Great Smoky Mountains National Park is established, becoming the most visited national park in the United States.

  • 1933: President Franklin D. Roosevelt establishes the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) as part of his New Deal program. The CCC plays a crucial role in the development and conservation of national parks, employing thousands of young men in projects such as trail construction, reforestation, and infrastructure improvements.

  • 1964: The Wilderness Act is passed, protecting designated wilderness areas within national parks and other public lands, ensuring their preservation in their natural state.

  • 1970: The National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) is signed into law, mandating environmental impact assessments for federal projects, including those within national parks.

  • 1980: The Alaska National Interest Lands Conservation Act is passed, expanding the national park system and adding significant areas of land in Alaska, including the establishment of Gates of the Arctic National Park and Preserve.

  • 2009: President Barack Obama signs the Omnibus Public Land Management Act into law, designating several new national parks and expanding existing ones, such as Joshua Tree National Park and Zion National Park.

  • Present: The U.S. National Park system has grown to include over 60 designated national parks, as well as national monuments, preserves, seashores, and historic sites. These protected areas attract millions of visitors each year and serve as vital conservation areas for biodiversity, natural wonders, cultural heritage, and outdoor recreation.

The establishment and continued expansion of the U.S. National Parks reflect a commitment to preserving and sharing the country's unique natural and cultural treasures for future generations.

The Kellogg's company, famous for its breakfast cereals, was founded in Battle Creek, Michigan, in 1906. The company's first product was Corn Flakes, which was invented by John Harvey Kellogg and his brother Will Keith Kellogg. The company went on to produce many other popular cereals, including Rice Krispies, Frosted Flakes, and Special K.
Michigan random facts
Keweenaw County, located in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan, has a rich and diverse history. The area was originally inhabited by the Indigenous Chippewa people, who used the Keweenaw Peninsula for hunting and fishing. In the 1840s, the discovery of copper in the region sparked a mining boom that would shape the county's future.

The mining industry drove rapid growth in Keweenaw County during the mid-19th century. The town of Copper Harbor became a bustling center of copper mining operations, attracting thousands of miners and immigrants from Europe. The industry reached its peak in the 1860s, making the Keweenaw Peninsula the largest copper-producing region in the United States. However, as the easily accessible copper veins were exhausted, the industry declined, leading to economic hardships in the area.

Keweenaw County's historical significance goes beyond mining. The region played a vital role in the lumber industry, with vast forests providing valuable timber resources. Large-scale logging operations took place in the county during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, contributing to the growth of nearby towns such as Calumet and Laurium.

Today, Keweenaw County preserves its rich history through various museums, historic sites, and landmarks. The Keweenaw National Historical Park, established in 1992, showcases the region's mining heritage and offers educational programs and exhibits. The restored copper mining towns of Calumet and Eagle Harbor also give visitors a glimpse into the county's past.

Despite economic fluctuations, Keweenaw County has maintained a strong sense of community and resilience. It continues to attract tourists who come to explore its natural beauty, historic sites, and outdoor recreational opportunities. The county's history and culture are deeply intertwined with its natural resources, making it a unique destination for those interested in exploring Michigan's fascinating past.

This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Keweenaw County, Michigan.

  • 1843: Keweenaw County is established by the Michigan Legislature.
  • 1844: Mining begins in the county, leading to a population boom.
  • 1846: Eagle River becomes the county seat.
  • 1850: The first lighthouse, Copper Harbor Lighthouse, is built.
  • 1852: The Keweenaw County Courthouse is constructed.
  • 1861: The Civil War starts, impacting the county's mining industry.
  • 1869: The copper boom ends, causing a decline in population and economic activity.
  • 1883: Phoenix becomes the county seat.
  • 1899: The Quincy and Torch Lake Railroad is completed, aiding transportation in the area.
  • 1923: The logging industry becomes prominent in the county.
  • 1947: The county seat moves back to Eagle River.
  • 1967: Calumet becomes the county seat, where it remains today.
  • 1992: Isle Royale National Park expands to include parts of Keweenaw County.