History of Baraga County, Michigan
Baraga County, located in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, is a region rich in history, shaped by its native peoples, European exploration, and natural resources. Originally inhabited by the Ojibwa (Chippewa) people, the area became a focal point for European settlers in the mid-19th century, drawn by the abundance of timber, copper, and iron ore. The county was officially organized in 1843 and named after Bishop Frederic Baraga, a missionary who played a significant role in the region’s religious and cultural history. Today, Baraga County is known for its natural beauty, including Lake Superior’s shores, forests, and outdoor recreational opportunities.
Early History: Indigenous Peoples and European Exploration
Indigenous Peoples: The Ojibwa
Before European settlers arrived, Baraga County was home to the Ojibwa (also known as the Chippewa) people, who were part of the larger Anishinaabe Confederacy. The Ojibwa were primarily hunters, fishers, and gatherers, relying heavily on the bountiful resources of the area. Lake Superior, the largest of the Great Lakes, was especially significant, providing food, transportation, and spiritual importance. The Ojibwa lived in villages along the lakeshores, using the water for fishing, travel, and trade.
The Ojibwa people had a rich spiritual life, with traditional beliefs centered on nature and a connection to the land. Their knowledge of the natural world, including hunting, fishing, and plant use, was extensive, and they passed down these skills through generations. The region’s forests, wetlands, and lakes played a central role in the culture and daily lives of the Ojibwa.
European Exploration and the Fur Trade
The arrival of European explorers in the 17th century introduced a new chapter to the history of Baraga County. French explorers, including Pierre-Esprit Radisson and Médard des Groseilliers, arrived in the Great Lakes region in the mid-1600s, and the fur trade became a primary economic activity. French missionaries and traders established outposts and trading posts in the area, where they engaged with the Ojibwa and other indigenous groups.
By the late 18th century, British and later American forces took control of the region, and the fur trade continued to thrive under new colonial and then U.S. control. The Ojibwa people, who had long engaged in the fur trade, played a vital role as intermediaries, trading beaver pelts and other furs for European goods like firearms, blankets, and tools. This trade transformed the social and economic structures of indigenous communities in the Upper Peninsula.
The Role of Bishop Frederic Baraga
Bishop Frederic Baraga, the namesake of the county, arrived in the region in the 1830s as a missionary to the Ojibwa people. Originally from Slovenia, Baraga was deeply committed to the welfare of the Native American communities and worked tirelessly to learn the Ojibwa language and translate religious texts. Baraga was instrumental in building relationships between the Ojibwa and European settlers, working to bridge the cultural divide.
Baraga’s efforts were particularly focused on education and religious conversion. He established schools and churches throughout the region and is remembered for his dedication to the Ojibwa people’s spiritual needs. Baraga County was named in his honor in recognition of his contributions to the area’s history and development.
The Rise of European Settlement
The Mining Boom
The mid-19th century marked a period of significant change for Baraga County as European settlers, mainly from the northeastern United States and Europe, began to arrive in the region. The discovery of copper and iron ore in the Upper Peninsula led to a mining boom, with industries flocking to the area in search of valuable minerals. This wave of settlement and industrialization would significantly alter the landscape and economy of Baraga County.
In the late 1800s, the establishment of copper and iron mines in the region provided economic opportunities, attracting workers and their families to Baraga County. The copper industry, in particular, boomed in the 1840s and 1850s, although by the late 19th century, it was in decline. The railroad played a crucial role in the growth of mining towns, as it allowed for easier transport of ore to smelters and shipping ports.
While mining brought economic prosperity to the area, it also brought environmental challenges, including the deforestation of large areas of the county to provide timber for construction and fuel. Over time, much of the mining activity waned, but the legacy of the region’s mineral wealth and the development of infrastructure remained.
Logging and Lumber Industry
In addition to mining, the timber industry played a significant role in Baraga County’s growth. The region’s dense forests were a valuable resource, and logging became one of the county’s primary industries. Lumber mills were established along rivers, where logs could be floated to sawmills for processing. This industry attracted settlers and workers, who helped build many of the communities that exist in Baraga County today.
The timber industry also brought challenges to the natural environment, as large swathes of forest were cleared for timber production, impacting local wildlife and ecosystems. However, the forests continued to provide a valuable resource, and many of the communities in Baraga County, including the town of Baraga itself, were founded around logging activities.
The 20th Century: Population Decline and Diversification
The Decline of Mining and Timber Industries
The 20th century brought economic diversification to Baraga County, as the once-booming mining and timber industries began to decline. The depletion of timber resources and the collapse of the copper and iron ore industries left a vacuum in the county’s economy, leading to population decline. As people left in search of work, many of the once-thriving mining towns became ghost towns.
However, Baraga County’s natural beauty, including its lakes, forests, and proximity to Lake Superior, began to draw tourists. The area became known for its outdoor recreational opportunities, including fishing, hunting, hiking, and camping. As the county’s economy shifted toward tourism and service industries, Baraga County’s rural charm and natural environment provided a foundation for growth.
The Role of the Railroad and Transportation
The construction of railroads in the 19th century helped shape Baraga County’s development, making it easier to transport goods such as timber, ore, and agricultural products. The introduction of automobile travel in the early 20th century also played a key role in expanding access to the area, bringing tourists and new residents. The county’s location along U.S. Highway 41 and proximity to other major roads helped to integrate Baraga County into the broader economic network of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula.
Native American Relations and Modern Times
The Ojibwa people of Baraga County continue to play an important role in the region’s cultural and political life. The Keweenaw Bay Indian Community, a federally recognized tribe, is headquartered in Baraga County and maintains a strong presence in the area. The tribe has focused on preserving its heritage, promoting economic development, and managing natural resources. Through the construction of casinos, cultural centers, and the promotion of traditional practices, the Keweenaw Bay Indian Community has maintained its connection to its ancestral lands.
In recent decades, Baraga County has faced challenges typical of rural areas, including a declining population and limited job opportunities. However, the county has worked to diversify its economy by focusing on tourism, outdoor recreation, and renewable energy projects, such as wind farms. Despite its small population, Baraga County has found ways to adapt and thrive in the 21st century.
Historical Sites in Baraga County
1. Baraga County Historical Museum
Overview
The Baraga County Historical Museum is dedicated to preserving the rich history of the county, including its Native American heritage, the influence of European settlers, and the rise of the mining and logging industries. The museum features artifacts, photographs, and exhibits that showcase the county’s diverse history.
Location
Baraga County Historical Museum, 101 N. Main St, Baraga, MI
Ticket Price
Free (Donations encouraged)
Parking Information
Free parking is available near the museum in downtown Baraga.
2. St. Ann’s Church
Overview
St. Ann’s Church, located in Baraga, is a historical landmark and an important site for the Catholic community. The church was founded by Bishop Frederic Baraga, who also served as its first priest. The church continues to serve as a place of worship and is a testament to the missionary work of Bishop Baraga in the region.
Location
St. Ann’s Church, 200 S. Third St, Baraga, MI
Ticket Price
Free
Parking Information
Free parking is available at the church.
3. Keweenaw Bay Indian Community Heritage Center
Overview
The Keweenaw Bay Indian Community Heritage Center offers visitors a chance to learn about the history, culture, and traditions of the Ojibwa people. The center features exhibits on Native American history, including the Ojibwa’s interactions with early European settlers, as well as modern tribal life.
Location
Keweenaw Bay Indian Community Heritage Center, 16429 Bear Town Rd, Baraga, MI
Ticket Price
Free (Donations accepted)
Parking Information
Ample parking is available at the center.
County Facts
Geography and Climate
Baraga County is located in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan, bordered by Lake Superior to the north. The county is characterized by its forests, lakes, and rivers, which provide a wealth of natural resources and outdoor recreational opportunities. The climate is typical of northern Michigan, with cold, snowy winters and mild summers. Lake Superior moderates the climate, leading to cool summers and long winters. The area receives significant snowfall, especially in the winter months.
Key Facts
- Year Founded: 1843
- County Seat: Baraga
- Population: Approximately 8,500 (2020 Census)
- Population Density: 19.4 people per square mile
- Largest Cities: Baraga, L’Anse
- Major Highways: U.S. Highway 41, M-38
- Adjacent Counties: Houghton County, Iron County (WI), Marquette County
