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Ironwood, Bessemer, and Wakefield are three historic cities located in the western part of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, in an area known as the Gogebic Range. Steeped in mining history and surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty, these communities offer a variety of attractions and activities for residents and visitors alike.

Ironwood, the largest of the three cities, was founded in 1885 and named after the abundant iron ore deposits in the region. The town flourished as a mining and lumbering center, attracting a diverse population of immigrants who contributed to the unique cultural heritage of the area. Today, Ironwood’s rich history is showcased in attractions such as the Ironwood Historical Society and the Old Depot Park Museum, which feature exhibits on the area’s mining, lumbering, and early settlement history.

One of Ironwood’s most iconic landmarks is the Hiawatha Statue, a giant fiberglass sculpture of the legendary Ojibwe leader. Standing 52 feet tall, the statue is one of the largest Native American-themed statues in the United States and has become a symbol of the city.

Just east of Ironwood lies the city of Bessemer, established in 1887 and named after Sir Henry Bessemer, the English inventor who developed the Bessemer process for steel production. Like Ironwood, Bessemer’s history is closely tied to the iron mining industry, which shaped the development of the community. The A. Lanfear Museum, located in the historic Bessemer City Hall, offers visitors a glimpse into the city’s past through exhibits on mining, logging, and local culture.

Further east is the city of Wakefield, founded in 1884 and named in honor of George G. Wakefield, a local land speculator. Wakefield, too, thrived as a mining and lumbering center, with its history preserved at the Wakefield Historical Museum. The museum is housed in the former St. James Hotel, a Victorian-era building that once served as a boarding house for miners.

The Ironwood, Bessemer, and Wakefield area is renowned for its outdoor recreational opportunities, thanks to its picturesque landscapes and abundant natural resources. The region is home to several state parks, such as the Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park and the Black River Harbor Recreation Area, which offer hiking, camping, fishing, and wildlife viewing opportunities. In the winter months, the area becomes a haven for snow sports, with numerous skiing, snowboarding, and snowmobiling trails available.

The three cities also host a variety of community events and festivals throughout the year, including the Jack Frost Festival in Ironwood, the Bessemer Pumpkinfest, and the Wakefield Fourth of July Celebration.