Ontonagon Historical Museum
Ontonagon County Historical Society Museum
A must-visit destination in Ontonagon is the Ontonagon County Historical Society Museum, hailed by many as the finest small-town museum around.
Explore captivating historical exhibits and immerse yourself in the rich maritime heritage of the region. Don't miss the opportunity to ascend to the lantern room for a spectacular view of the lake, harbor, and the distinct outline of the Porcupine Mountains, stretching 20 miles into the horizon.
Indulge in a leisurely stroll through the museum's convenient gift shop, where you can find unique treasures to commemorate your visit. Whether you're a history enthusiast or simply seeking a memorable experience, the Ontonagon County Historical Society Museum promises an unforgettable journey through time.
Visit The Completely Accessible Museum Complex
The Ontonagon County Historical Society Museum is conveniently located on River Street, easily recognizable by its distinctive pink door and vibrant exterior. Situated at the northern end of US 45, the museum serves as a captivating gateway to the rich history of Ontonagon County.
Accessible to all, including restroom facilities, the museum complex houses an array of displays and artifacts chronicling the region's storied past. Towering three stories high, the iconic light tower stands at 39 feet from the water to the focal plane. Crowned by an iron decagonal beacon house, which once housed the fifth-order Fresnel lens and light, the tower is surrounded by a square iron gallery complete with a platform and rail. Step inside and embark on a journey through time, exploring the fascinating heritage of Ontonagon County.
Replica of The Ontonagon Boulder
Among the fascinating exhibits, you'll encounter a replica of the renowned Ontonagon Boulder—a staggering 3,708-pound chunk of nearly pure copper unearthed from a branch of the Ontonagon River, once nestled in what is now Lake Victoria. The original boulder now resides at the esteemed Smithsonian Institution in Washington, D.C., serving as a tangible link to the Copper Rush of the 19th century.
During this era of fervent mining activity, the lumber industry in the Upper Peninsula and northern Wisconsin also flourished, with vast expanses of white pine forests harvested to meet the demands of a growing nation. However, this period of prosperity came at a cost, as the once-abundant timber, intended to endure for centuries, was depleted in less than half a century. The aftermath left behind a landscape of rugged, semi-cleared land, as lumber companies relinquished their claims and abandoned vast tracts to the townships.
