Marquette County, Michigan

Marquette County, located in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan, has a rich history that stretches back thousands of years. The area was originally inhabited by indigenous peoples, including the Ojibwe and Menominee tribes. These tribes relied on the area's abundant natural resources, such as fish, game, and copper.

In the 17th century, French explorers arrived in the area, attracted by the region's valuable resources. They established trade relations with the native tribes and established several fur trading posts. The French presence in the area declined in the early 18th century, and control of the region passed to the British as part of the Treaty of Paris in 1763.

In the mid-19th century, Marquette County experienced a boom with the discovery of iron ore deposits. The opening of the Marquette Iron Range in the 1840s led to a surge in population and development. The city of Marquette was founded in 1849 and became a center for iron ore mining and shipping.

The mining industry in Marquette County continued to grow throughout the 19th and early 20th centuries, attracting immigrants from Europe, particularly Finland, Sweden, and Italy. These immigrants played a significant role in the development of the region, bringing their expertise in mining and shaping the cultural landscape of the area.

Today, Marquette County continues to be an important center for mining and natural resource extraction. The region also boasts a diverse economy, including tourism, education, and healthcare. The rich history and natural beauty of the area attract visitors from around the world, making Marquette County an important destination for both recreation and industry.
Brief timeline of the history of Marquette County, Michigan:

  • 1673 - First recorded visit to Marquette County by French explorers Jacques Marquette and Louis Jolliet.
  • 1849 - Marquette County established as a territory within the state of Michigan.
  • 1850 - First permanent settlement established in what is now Marquette County.
  • 1855 - Marquette becomes the county seat.
  • 1863 - Marquette Iron Range discovered, leading to a major mining boom.
  • 1889 - Northern Michigan University founded in Marquette.
  • 1892 - Marquette becomes one of the largest iron ore shipping ports on the Great Lakes.
  • 1927 - Completion of the Marquette Branch Prison, now known as the Marquette Branch Prison Complex.
  • 1959 - Closure of the last operating iron ore mine in Marquette County.
  • 1979 - Construction of the Upper Peninsula's only oil refinery begins in Marquette County.

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