Commerce

Menominee County, located in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan, has a rich history that dates back thousands of years. The county is named after the Menominee Indian tribe, who have resided in the area for centuries. Before European settlement, the Menominee people relied on the abundant natural resources of the region, including the forests and waterways for hunting, fishing, and gathering.

In the 1600s, French explorers and fur traders began to arrive in the area, establishing relationships with the Menominee tribe. The fur trade brought new economic opportunities to the region and led to the establishment of small trading posts. However, with the decline of the fur trade in the early 1800s, the area's economy shifted towards logging and shipbuilding.

During the mid-19th century, Menominee County experienced a period of rapid growth. The discovery of iron ore deposits in the nearby Upper Peninsula led to an influx of settlers and the establishment of mining operations. Along with mining, the timber industry boomed, and Menominee became one of the largest producers of lumber in the nation. The logging and mining industries brought prosperity and jobs to the area, attracting a diverse population of immigrants, including many Finnish, Swedish, and Polish settlers.

In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Menominee County faced challenges brought on by the decline of the logging and mining industries. The depletion of timber resources and a decrease in demand for iron ore led to a downturn in the local economy. However, throughout the 20th century, the county adapted to new industries such as manufacturing and tourism, helping to revitalize the area. Today, Menominee County remains a beautiful region known for its natural beauty, recreational opportunities, and a strong sense of community.