Copyright: National Park Service
Keweenaw NHP preserves the heritage of hard-rock copper mining, represented by these miners in 1905. Keweenaw NHP Archives.
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Description - Keweenaw Peninsula of Michigan is the only place in the world where commercially abundant quantities of elemental copper occurred. It has the oldest metal mining heritage in the western hemisphere -- one which dates back 7,000 years. The Keweenaw Peninsula was the site of America's first large scale hard-rock industrial mining operations. The copper mines of the Keweenaw were critical to the industrial development of the United States. Mine shafts here reached over 9,000 feet deep. The men who labored, and sometimes died in these mines, along with the women who nurtured them, gave the Keweenaw Peninsula a rich mix of language, costume and custom. Their descendants are now working with the National Park Service to share these many stories with all the people of America at a national park which relies on partnerships with local communities in the Keweenaw.
Attractions
- There are approximately 1,700 acres within two units of Keweenaw National Historical Park. Much of that area is, and will remain, in private ownership. Keweenaw National Historical Park will own only areas where it will preserve key structures and sites and conduct its interpretive activities. In addition, there are a number of Cooperating Sites scattered across a one hundred mile section of the Keweenaw Peninsula. These sites, are cooperating with the National Park Service to provide interpretive opportunities and visitor services.
Recreation - There are presently no facilities operated by the National Park Service. Hours and days of operation at the Cooperating Sites vary with the season. Check with the Keweenaw Tourism Council, 888-646-6784, which is presently acting as the park's information office, for specific details. Climate - The Upper Peninsula normally experiences mild summers with average temperatures near 70 degrees F (21 degrees C). Winter temperatures average 14 degrees F (-10 degrees C). Rain and snowmelt in the region can reach up to 160 inches annually. Travelers should be aware that significant amounts of snow could fall within a relatively short period of time resulting in hazardous road conditions. Location -
The Quincy Unit of the park is located just north of Hancock, MI, along US 41. The Calumet Unit is located in and around the Village of Calumet, MI, about eight miles north of the Quincy Unit on US 41.
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