ISHPEMING/
NEGAUNEE

Ishpeming and Negaunee are two historic cities located in the central part of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, in the heart of Marquette County. Rich in mining history and surrounded by natural beauty, these neighboring communities offer a variety of attractions and activities that captivate both residents and visitors.

Ishpeming, founded in 1846, was originally named “Lake Superior Location” but later adopted its present name, derived from the Ojibwe word “ishpiming,” meaning “in the heavens” or “on high.” This name is believed to reference the area’s elevated terrain, rising above the surrounding land. Ishpeming’s history is closely tied to the discovery of iron ore in the region, which led to the development of mines and the growth of the community.

Negaunee, situated just to the east of Ishpeming, was founded in 1858 and has a name that also originates from the Ojibwe language, meaning “pioneer” or “at the head.” Like Ishpeming, Negaunee thrived as a center for iron mining, with the industry shaping the development of the city and its inhabitants.

The area’s mining history is well documented in several museums and historical sites. The Michigan Iron Industry Museum, located between the two cities in Negaunee, showcases the history of the iron mining industry in the region and its impact on local communities. The museum features exhibits on mining technology, the daily lives of miners, and the geology of the area.

Another notable historical site is the Cliffs Shaft Mine Museum in Ishpeming, housed in the original structures of the historic Cliffs Shaft Mine. The museum provides visitors with an opportunity to learn about the mining process and explore the above-ground facilities of the mine, including the headframe, hoist house, and dry house. Tours of the underground mine are also available, offering a unique glimpse into the lives of miners who once toiled beneath the earth’s surface.

Ishpeming and Negaunee are not only steeped in history, but they also offer a wide array of outdoor recreational opportunities. The surrounding area boasts numerous hiking, biking, and cross-country ski trails that traverse the beautiful Upper Peninsula landscape. Deer Lake, located near Ishpeming, offers fishing, swimming, and boating opportunities, while the nearby Al Quaal Recreation Area features sports facilities, a tubing hill, and a network of trails.

One of Ishpeming’s most renowned attractions is the National Ski Hall of Fame and Museum, which celebrates the history of skiing in the United States and honors the achievements of the sport’s greatest athletes. The museum features exhibits on the evolution of skiing equipment, ski jumping, and the role of skiing in American culture.

Both cities also host several annual events and festivals, including the Art Faire and Renaissance Festival in Ishpeming, the Noquemanon Ski Marathon, and the Pioneer Days festival in Negaunee, which draw participants and spectators from across the region.