Eagle Harbor Light Station
Eagle Harbor, Eagle Harbor, MI Local significance of the building:Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 1984.
- 1821: The Mexican War of Independence concludes, and Mexico gains independence from Spain. Texas is a part of the newly formed Republic of Mexico.
- 1824: The Mexican government establishes the Constitution of 1824, which grants certain rights to the Mexican states, including Texas.
- 1826: A group of American settlers, known as the Fredonian Rebellion, attempt to establish an independent state in Texas. The rebellion is short-lived and quickly suppressed by Mexican authorities.
- 1830: The Mexican government, concerned about the growing number of American settlers in Texas, passes the Law of April 6, 1830, which imposes restrictions on further American immigration to Texas.
- 1835: Tensions between American settlers and the Mexican government escalate, leading to the Texas Revolution. The Texian rebels, led by figures such as Stephen F. Austin and Sam Houston, engage in battles against Mexican forces.
- 1836: On March 2, the Texian delegates at the Convention of 1836 declare independence from Mexico and establish the Republic of Texas. Sam Houston is elected as the first President of Texas. The Battle of the Alamo takes place in February-March, where a small Texian garrison defends the Alamo Mission against a large Mexican army. Despite their defeat, the battle becomes a symbol of Texian resistance.
- 1836-1838: The Republic of Texas faces a series of military conflicts with Mexico, including the Goliad Massacre and the Battle of San Jacinto. The decisive Texian victory at San Jacinto secures their independence and captures Mexican General Santa Anna, who signs the Treaties of Velasco recognizing Texas as an independent nation.
- 1836-1845: The Republic of Texas operates as an independent nation, establishing a constitution, government, and capital at various locations including Washington-on-the-Brazos, Harrisburg, and eventually, Houston. Efforts to join the United States face opposition due to fears of potential conflict with Mexico.
- 1845: Texas agrees to annexation and becomes the 28th state of the United States on December 29, 1845, following approval by the U.S. Congress. This leads to the Mexican-American War in 1846.
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.
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.
Keweenaw County Timeline
This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history 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.