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Negaunee, Michigan
Negaunee, Michigan
from Wikipedia

Negaunee (/nəˈɡɔːni/ nə-GAW-nee or locally /ˈnəˈɡɒni/ nə-GON-ee) is a city in Marquette County in the U.S. state of Michigan. The population was 4,627 at the 2020 census.[2] The city is located at the southwest corner of Negaunee Township, which is administratively separate, in the Upper Peninsula. The city is home to a luge track. The name "Negaunee" comes from an Anishinabemowin (Ojibwe) word nigani, meaning "foremost, in advance, leading," which was determined to be the closest Ojibwe translation for "pioneer". Within the city limits is Teal Lake.

Key Information

History

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The city was built after the discovery of the Marquette Iron Range during the early 19th century. The Jackson Mine was established in 1845 to mine the ore for shipment to iron forges; the first such forge to operate in the Lake Superior basin was set up in Negaunee during this period.[5] In 1858, the community was given a post office. In 1865, Negaunee was incorporated as a village and reincorporated as a city in 1873.[6] As mining operations expanded, many immigrants helped settle the area, bringing with them rich traditions that remain today. Due to extensive underground mining, roughly half the city was abandoned in the early 20th century due to risk of cave-in. The city closed its trolley system in 1927. The Jackson Mine ceased all operations within the city limits in the 1940s.

On January 16, 1952, Negaunee became the smallest city to ever host an NBA game. The Milwaukee Hawks beat the Baltimore Bullets 77–71. Baltimore's Don Barksdale led all scorers with 24 points. Negaunee is still the smallest city to ever host any of the four major North American professional sports.[7]

Geography

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Negaunee is in central Marquette County and is bordered to the west by the city of Ishpeming. Marquette, the county seat, is 10 miles (16 km) to the east. Negaunee sits on the eastern shore of Teal Lake, all of which is within the city borders. According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 14.34 square miles (37.14 km2), of which 13.44 square miles (34.81 km2) are land and 0.89 square miles (2.31 km2), or 6.24%, are water.[1]

Attractions

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Sign and map for the Old Town Disc Golf Course

The Michigan Iron Industry Museum is located near the Carp River on the outskirts of Negaunee. Negaunee is home to Pioneer Days, a festival held every year the week following July 4.

Negaunee is the home of the only full-length natural-track luge course in the United States,[8] maintained by the Upper Peninsula Luge Club.[9] A section near the finish line is open to public sliding in the wintertime, using club equipment.[10] The original track layout was over 800 meters (0.50 mi) in length,[11] featuring 29 curves along its 88-meter (289 ft) vertical drop.[12]

Negaunee is also the home of Suicide Hill Ski Jump, a ski jump training facility where the Ishpeming Ski Club prepares skiers for classic cross country skiing, Nordic combined, and ski jumping competitions.

The county's Heritage Trails pass through Negaunee where visitors can stroll, hike, bike, and snowmobile through Old Town Negaunee and around various collapsed underground mines from last century. The Negaunee portion of the trail also includes a new disc golf course.

Transportation

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Highways

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Bus

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Demographics

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Historical population
CensusPop.Note
18702,559
18803,93153.6%
18906,07854.6%
19006,93514.1%
19108,46022.0%
19207,419−12.3%
19306,552−11.7%
19406,8134.0%
19506,472−5.0%
19606,126−5.3%
19705,248−14.3%
19805,189−1.1%
19904,741−8.6%
20004,576−3.5%
20104,568−0.2%
20204,6271.3%
U.S. Decennial Census[14]

2010 census

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As of the census[15] of 2010, there were 4,568 people, 1,940 households, and 1,219 families residing in the city. The population density was 336.9 inhabitants per square mile (130.1/km2). There were 2,119 housing units at an average density of 156.3 per square mile (60.3/km2). The racial makeup of the city was 96.6% White, 0.1% African American, 1.1% Native American, 0.3% Asian, 0.2% from other races, and 1.7% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 1.1% of the population.

There were 1,940 households, of which 30.6% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 47.1% were married couples living together, 10.9% had a female householder with no husband present, 4.8% had a male householder with no wife present, and 37.2% were non-families. 31.7% of all households were made up of individuals, and 13.8% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.30 and the average family size was 2.90.

The median age in the city was 39.7 years. 23.9% of residents were under the age of 18; 8% were between the ages of 18 and 24; 24.4% were from 25 to 44; 27.2% were from 45 to 64; and 16.7% were 65 years of age or older. The gender makeup of the city was 47.4% male and 52.6% female.

2000 census

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As of the census[3] of 2000, there were 4,576 people, 1,946 households, and 1,218 families residing in the city. The population density was 332.1 inhabitants per square mile (128.2/km2). There were 2,088 housing units at an average density of 151.5 per square mile (58.5/km2). The racial makeup of the city was 96.63% White, 0.28% African American, 1.29% Native American, 0.22% Asian, 0.13% from other races, and 1.44% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 0.44% of the population. 28.8% were of Finnish, 14.5% Italian, 14.0% English, 9.3% German, 8.9% Swedish and 5.8% French ancestry according to Census 2000. 95.7% spoke English, 1.7% Spanish and 1.5% Finnish as their first language.

There were 1,946 households, out of which 27.4% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 49.4% were married couples living together, 9.0% had a female householder with no husband present, and 37.4% were non-families. 33.0% of all households were made up of individuals, and 16.6% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.30 and the average family size was 2.93.

In the city, the population was spread out, with 22.3% under the age of 18, 9.1% from 18 to 24, 25.9% from 25 to 44, 23.8% from 45 to 64, and 18.8% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 40 years. For every 100 females, there were 92.0 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 89.7 males.

The median income for a household in the city was $33,117, and the median income for a family was $39,750. Males had a median income of $36,026 versus $22,380 for females. The per capita income for the city was $16,889. About 6.3% of families and 9.4% of the population were below the poverty line, including 11.7% of those under age 18 and 5.6% of those age 65 or over.

Education

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President Obama teleconferences from Northern Michigan University with Negaunee High School students

The Negaunee school system, Negaunee Public Schools, ranked in the top 20% of schools for the State of Michigan in 2008.[16] It has since slightly decreased in rank in 2023.[17]

Negaunee Public Schools consists of three main buildings: Lakeview Elementary, which has K-4th grades; Negaunee Middle School, which has 5th through 8th grade; and Negaunee High School, which has 9th through 12th grade. Negaunee athletics have large, healthy rivalries with the Westwood Patriots (Ishpeming Township, Michigan) and Ishpeming Hematites. Other relevant rivalries exist with the Calumet Copper Kings and Iron Mountain Mountaineers.

St. Paul's Catholic School was formerly in Negaunee. Closure was proposed in 1974.[18]

Climate

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This climatic region is typified by large seasonal temperature differences, with warm to hot (and often humid) summers and cold (sometimes severely cold) winters. According to the Köppen Climate Classification system, Negaunee has a humid continental climate, abbreviated "Dfb" on climate maps.[19] The normal monthly mean temperature ranges from 13.6 °F (−10.2 °C) in January to 65.5 °F (18.6 °C) in July.[20] From 1981 to 2010, on average, there were only 3.6 days annually with a maximum of 90 °F (32 °C) or higher, 97 days with a maximum remaining at or below freezing (including most days from December thru February), and 31 days with a minimum reaching 0 °F (−18 °C) or below.[20] The average window for freezing temperatures is September 23 thru May 26, allowing a growing season of 120 days.[20] Negaunee is the location of the National Weather Service forecast office that serves Marquette and surrounding areas.[21]

Precipitation is moderate, averaging 35.7 inches (910 millimeters) annually, with September and October being the wettest months, and the meteorological winter months of December thru February being the driest in terms of normal total precipitation.[20] Snowfall is extremely heavy due to the location in the lake effect snow belt of Lake Superior, averaging 203 in (5.16 m) per season, with the snowiest months of December and January each producing around 43 in (1.1 m) of snow.[20] On average, measurable (0.1 inches or 0.25 centimeters) snow occurs between October 14 and April 28, with accumulating snow in May occurring around half of the time; accumulating snow in September is much rarer, occurring on average once per decade.[20]

Climate data for NWS Marquette WFO (1981–2010 normals, extremes 1959–present)
Month Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Year
Record high °F (°C) 53
(12)
61
(16)
81
(27)
92
(33)
95
(35)
99
(37)
99
(37)
96
(36)
93
(34)
87
(31)
73
(23)
59
(15)
99
(37)
Mean maximum °F (°C) 39.0
(3.9)
45.4
(7.4)
57.4
(14.1)
73.8
(23.2)
84.1
(28.9)
88.4
(31.3)
89.4
(31.9)
88.2
(31.2)
83.7
(28.7)
74.3
(23.5)
56.2
(13.4)
42.4
(5.8)
91.9
(33.3)
Mean daily maximum °F (°C) 21.9
(−5.6)
25.6
(−3.6)
34.7
(1.5)
47.8
(8.8)
61.8
(16.6)
71.7
(22.1)
76.4
(24.7)
74.3
(23.5)
65.8
(18.8)
52.1
(11.2)
37.6
(3.1)
25.9
(−3.4)
49.8
(9.9)
Mean daily minimum °F (°C) 5.2
(−14.9)
5.3
(−14.8)
13.8
(−10.1)
28.0
(−2.2)
39.9
(4.4)
49.4
(9.7)
54.6
(12.6)
53.1
(11.7)
45.8
(7.7)
34.2
(1.2)
23.0
(−5.0)
11.2
(−11.6)
30.4
(−0.9)
Mean minimum °F (°C) −14.8
(−26.0)
−16.0
(−26.7)
−11.7
(−24.3)
10.0
(−12.2)
25.2
(−3.8)
34.7
(1.5)
41.1
(5.1)
39.0
(3.9)
30.2
(−1.0)
22.0
(−5.6)
5.9
(−14.5)
−9.8
(−23.2)
−20.4
(−29.1)
Record low °F (°C) −32
(−36)
−34
(−37)
−30
(−34)
−9
(−23)
17
(−8)
25
(−4)
34
(1)
31
(−1)
21
(−6)
9
(−13)
−13
(−25)
−28
(−33)
−34
(−37)
Average precipitation inches (mm) 2.41
(61)
2.14
(54)
3.03
(77)
3.01
(76)
3.05
(77)
2.84
(72)
2.84
(72)
3.05
(77)
3.72
(94)
3.84
(98)
3.18
(81)
2.57
(65)
35.68
(906)
Average snowfall inches (cm) 43.2
(110)
35.9
(91)
34.9
(89)
14.5
(37)
1.5
(3.8)
0
(0)
0
(0)
0
(0)
0.1
(0.25)
6.0
(15)
24.4
(62)
42.8
(109)
203.3
(516)
Average precipitation days (≥ 0.01 in) 17.3 13.1 14.5 12.2 11.5 12.2 11.6 10.7 13.4 15.2 15.2 17.1 164.0
Average snowy days (≥ 0.1 in) 19.6 14.7 13.0 6.5 0.9 0 0 0 0.1 4.1 12.4 18.3 89.6
Source: NOAA[20][22]

Notable people

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References

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[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia
from Grokipedia
Negaunee is a located in Marquette County in the , , with a population of 4,627 as of the . The city occupies 13.4 square miles of land area at the southwest corner of Negaunee Township and lies approximately 5 miles west of Marquette, near Teal Lake. Founded amid the discovery of iron ore deposits in 1844 by an exploratory mining party near Teal Lake, Negaunee—named after a Chippewa word meaning "pioneer"—quickly developed as a key center for iron mining in the Lake Superior region, with the Jackson Mine opening in 1845 and the area's first iron forge established shortly thereafter. The community saw rapid growth through immigrant labor, establishing a post office in 1858, incorporating as a town in 1865, forming its first police force in 1868, and achieving city status in 1873. Mining dominated the local economy for over a century, shaping Negaunee's identity and attracting diverse settlers who built lasting cultural traditions. Today, Negaunee has transitioned from its heritage to a more diversified emphasizing industrial development, small businesses, improvements, expansion, and opportunities amid its scenic natural surroundings. The median household income was $70,483 in 2023, supporting a with award-winning schools, medical facilities, and unique local shopping and dining. Notable attractions include the Michigan Iron Industry Museum, which preserves the region's legacy through exhibits and historic sites, and the Negaunee Historical Museum, offering insights into the city's pioneer past. The city's commitment to its history is evident in events like guided walks through Old Town Negaunee, connecting residents and visitors to foundational structures and stories from its industrial origins.

History

Founding and Incorporation

The discovery of in the area that would become Negaunee occurred on September 19, 1844, when a U.S. government surveying party led by William A. Burt, guided by Native American locals familiar with the terrain, identified significant deposits near Teal Lake on the . These guides, from the (Chippewa) people who had long inhabited the region, directed the explorers to the prominent outcropping at what is now the site of the Jackson Mine, marking the first documented recognition of the area's rich mineral resources by non-Native settlers. This event sparked interest in the Upper Peninsula's potential for iron extraction, laying the groundwork for settlement in a previously sparsely populated . Negaunee was officially founded in as a mining camp by the Jackson Iron Company, which organized operations around the newly discovered body. The name "Negaunee" derives from the word niigaaniinh, meaning "pioneer" or "leading ahead," reflecting the site's role as the forefront of Michigan's emerging iron industry and honoring the Indigenous heritage of the area. Initial development was rudimentary, consisting of log cabins and basic infrastructure to support miners and surveyors, with the camp serving as a hub for early extraction efforts beginning in 1845. The community formalized its status through incorporation as a village in 1865, amid growing economic activity that attracted workers and merchants to the region. By 1873, with continued expansion driven by , Negaunee was reincorporated as a , establishing its own ; key early figures included Edward Breitung, a entrepreneur and who arrived in 1859 and later served as , contributing to the area's administrative and economic foundations. Population growth was rapid during this period, rising from approximately 124 residents in the nascent settlement of 1850 to 2,559 by the 1870 U.S. Census, fueled by an influx of laborers seeking opportunities in the burgeoning iron sector.)

Mining Industry Development

The mining industry in Negaunee began with the establishment of the Jackson Mine in 1845, marking the first operational iron mine in the district. Organized by the Jackson Iron Company, this open-pit operation extracted high-grade ore from the , initially using basic tools like picks and bars to pry ore from surface exposures up to 150 feet high. The mine's development spurred rapid industrial growth, transforming the area from wilderness into a bustling center by the late 1840s. Negaunee emerged as a key hub in the , which has historically produced approximately 300 million tons of direct-shipping since commenced in 1848. This output contributed significantly to the broader iron district's total production exceeding 4 billion tons, fueling the U.S. industry during the . The range's rich deposits of 52-54% Fe ores drove economic expansion, with Negaunee's mines playing a pivotal role in early shipments that reached over one million tons annually by 1873. Essential infrastructure supported this growth, including the Carp River Forge, constructed in 1848 by the Jackson Iron Company as the first iron smelting operation in the Lake Superior region. Operating until 1855, the forge processed local ore into small quantities of wrought iron using charcoal from nearby timber before shifting focus to direct ore shipment. Railroads were critical for transport; the Marquette, Houghton & Ontonagon Railroad, completed in 1857 from Negaunee to Marquette, became the Upper Peninsula's first common carrier line, initially horse-powered and later steam-driven to haul ore to Lake Superior ports. Subsequent lines, such as the Peninsula Railroad's Escanaba-Negaunee route finished in 1864, enhanced connectivity and enabled efficient ore export via Great Lakes vessels. Mining peaked in the late 1800s, with the Marquette Range outputting over five million tons annually by the 1890s, employing thousands in underground and open-pit operations. This boom attracted multicultural immigration, drawing workers from Cornwall, Finland, Italy, Sweden, and other European regions through chain migration networks, who brought specialized mining skills and diversified the local workforce to meet labor demands.

20th Century and Modern Era

The mining industry in Negaunee, which had driven the city's growth in the 19th century, began a prolonged decline in the early due to the depletion of high-grade iron ores and persistent safety hazards from underground operations. By the 1920s, several mines faced closures amid increasing cave-ins, with the eastern sections of the city declared unsafe as subsidence threatened structures above the extensive tunnel networks. Resource exhaustion intensified this trend; by the , viable underground deposits were largely spent, prompting a shift toward lower-grade ore processing that reduced employment and economic reliance on . This downturn culminated in significant urban disruption during the mid-20th century, as cave-ins forced the partial abandonment of the city's original west end neighborhood, known as Old Town. In the , mining companies warned of imminent collapses, leading to the relocation of roughly half the population eastward and the demolition or dismantling of homes and buildings to mitigate risks. By the , much of this area stood condemned and vacant, leaving behind remnants like isolated staircases leading to empty lots, symbolizing the era's toll on the community. The last major underground operation, the Mather B Mine, closed in 1979 as the regional industry transitioned to open-pit processing elsewhere. Amid these challenges, Negaunee hosted a notable cultural event in that briefly spotlighted the city nationally. On January 16, the Hawks defeated the Bullets 73-60 in an NBA regular-season game at Negaunee High School's gymnasium, a venue with a capacity of about 1,800 seats. With the city's population around 6,400 at the time, this remains the smallest municipality to host a professional game, arranged as a neutral-site matchup to boost league attendance during a period of financial strain. Post-mining recovery efforts emphasized heritage preservation and economic diversification starting in the late . The Michigan Iron Industry Museum opened in 1987 on a 40-acre site overlooking the historic Carp River Forge—the first iron manufactory in the region, operational from 1848 to 1855—and incorporating former mining lands deeded to the state in 1979-1980. This state-funded facility, costing $1.5 million, educates visitors on the Marquette Iron Range's legacy while supporting tourism on reclaimed industrial grounds. In recent years, Negaunee has pursued revitalization through and community initiatives. The city's "Forge Your Adventure" strategy, released in November 2024, outlines a five-year focus on expanding housing options to attract residents and workers, alongside enhancing amenities like trails and parks to leverage the area's natural assets. These efforts contributed to Negaunee receiving the Michigan Municipal League's 2025 Community Excellence Award for its Downtown Enhancement Project, which upgraded infrastructure, added pedestrian-friendly features such as Iron Town Plaza, and transformed a blighted commercial district into a vibrant hub.

Geography

Location and Physical Features

Negaunee is situated in Marquette County in Michigan's Upper Peninsula, approximately 10 miles southwest of the city of Marquette and adjacent to Ishpeming. The city encompasses a land area of 13.4 square miles according to the U.S. Census Bureau. Its water features include Teal Lake, a 466-acre body covering about 0.73 square miles and reaching a maximum depth of 32 feet. The local topography has been shaped by the , a major formation consisting of sedimentary layers in a synclinal structure that features rocky hills and surrounding forests. Negaunee lies approximately 12 miles northwest of Lake Superior's shoreline, with elevations ranging from 1,200 to 1,500 feet above sea level; the urban core is aligned along U.S. Route 41.

Climate

Negaunee experiences a classified as Dfb under the Köppen system, characterized by cold, snowy winters and mild summers. Winters are prolonged and severe, with average daily high temperatures in reaching only 22°F and lows around 7°F, often dipping below 20°F overall for the month. The cold season spans from late to mid-March, during which snowfall predominates, contributing to an annual average of 203 inches (1981-2010 normals)—among the highest in the Upper Peninsula. Precipitation totals approximately 30 inches yearly, with most falling as snow from through due to lake-effect influences from nearby . Summers are relatively mild, with marking the warmest month at an average high of 76°F and low of 55°F. The warm season lasts from late May to mid-September, featuring comfortable temperatures moderated by , which keeps extremes in check and supports even distribution of rainfall during these months. Overall, the lake's proximity tempers both summer heat and winter cold, preventing more severe continental swings while enhancing snowfall through moisture-laden winds. Extreme weather records underscore the climate's variability, as recorded at the National Weather Service office in Negaunee Township. The lowest recorded temperature was -36°F on January 17, 1977, reflecting intense outbreaks common to the Upper Peninsula. The highest reached 105°F on August 9, 1936, during a historic North American . These records highlight the range from subzero winters to occasional summer peaks, influenced by the region's position near .

Demographics

Population History

Negaunee's population grew rapidly in the mid-19th century, fueled by drawn to the burgeoning industry. The settlement, which began as a small outpost, recorded just 124 residents in 1850, but expanded dramatically to 6,078 by 1890 as workers and their families arrived from and other parts of the to support operations. This growth continued into the early , with the reaching 6,935 in 1900, before the exhaustion of accessible ore deposits and the relocation of activities led to a prolonged decline. By 2000, the number of residents had fallen to 4,601, reflecting the economic impacts of mine closures and out-migration from the region. In the decades following, Negaunee's population stabilized at around 4,600 to 4,700, with the 2020 census recording 4,627 residents amid a general trend of slow depopulation in the Upper Peninsula. Key factors in this stabilization include economic shifts away from , such as the 2016 indefinite idling of the Empire Mine that eliminated approximately 200 jobs, as well as net migration influenced by the city's close proximity to Marquette, which facilitates commuting and regional economic ties. As of 2023, the estimated population is 4,641, reflecting continued modest stability.
YearPopulation
1850124
18906,078
19006,935
20004,601
20204,627
2023 (est.)4,641

2020 Census Details

According to the , the population of Negaunee was 4,627, representing a slight increase of 1.3% from the 4,568 residents recorded in the 2010 Census. This figure reflects the city's stable resident base in the Upper Peninsula. The racial and ethnic composition of Negaunee in 2020 was predominantly White alone at 91.9%, followed by individuals identifying with two or more races at 3.3%, American Indian and Alaska Native alone at 1.9%, and Asian alone at 0.7%; or African American alone accounted for 0.4%, and 1.8% of the identified as or Latino of any race. These demographics highlight the city's largely homogeneous character, with limited diversity across racial and ethnic groups. Household metrics from the 2020 Census indicate 1,945 households with an average size of 2.38 persons per household. The median age was 36.9 years (2018-2022 ACS), and the population was 50.1% female. These statistics underscore a middle-aged community with moderately sized families. Housing data showed 2,067 total units, of which 94.1% were occupied. The median home value was $147,800 (2018-2022 ACS), reflecting affordable housing options typical of small Midwestern cities.
Demographic Category2020 ValueSource
Total Population4,6272020 Decennial Census
2010 Population4,5682010 Decennial Census
White alone91.9%2020 Decennial Census
American Indian and Alaska Native alone1.9%2020 Decennial Census
Two or More Races3.3%2020 Decennial Census
Asian alone0.7%2020 Decennial Census
Black or African American alone0.4%2020 Decennial Census
Hispanic or Latino1.8%2020 Decennial Census
Households1,9452020 Decennial Census
Average Household Size2.382020 Decennial Census
Median Age36.9 years2018-2022 ACS
Female Population50.1%2020 Decennial Census
Total Housing Units2,0672020 Decennial Census
Occupied Units94.1%2020 Decennial Census
Median Home Value$147,8002018-2022 ACS

Economy

Major Industries

Negaunee's economy has historically been dominated by iron mining, which began in the mid-19th century and formed the backbone of the local and regional economy for over a century. The , centered around Negaunee, produced high-grade that fueled much of the ' industrial growth, with the overall iron industry in the region generating more than $48 billion in value over its lifetime. Operations like the Jackson Mine, one of the first in the area, extracted millions of tons of ore, contributing significantly to Marquette County's economic development through exports via nearby ports. As active large-scale mining declined in the late , remnants of the industry persist through nearby operations such as ' Tilden Mine in Marquette County, which continues production and to support steel manufacturing. This historical legacy has transitioned into tourism, attracting visitors to sites like the Michigan Iron Industry Museum in Negaunee, which preserves artifacts and offers interpretive exhibits on the industry's impact. The Heritage Trail, a 47-mile multi-use path starting at the museum, further promotes eco-tourism by highlighting former mine sites, rail lines, and natural landscapes along the . In the modern era, Negaunee's major industries have diversified, with healthcare and emerging as key sectors. Healthcare, exemplified by facilities under UP Health System serving the local community through clinics and outpatient services, employs a significant portion of the workforce alongside regional hospitals in nearby Marquette. , including and related activities tied to the area's industrial heritage, also represents a primary employer, supporting local production needs. Retail and service sectors round out the economy by addressing daily community demands, such as grocery and consumer goods, while contributing to the broader stability of Marquette County's diversified economic base.

Employment and Development

In 2023, Negaunee had an employed workforce of 2,180, marking a modest growth of 0.738% from the previous year. The local unemployment rate hovered around 4.5%, aligning closely with broader Marquette County trends during that period. Economic indicators reflect a stable community profile, with the median household income reaching $70,483 and a rate of 11.6% as of 2023. The city's 2024 economic development strategy, titled "Forge Your Adventure," outlines a five-year framework to foster growth through targeted initiatives, including the expansion of industrial parks, increased housing options, retention of existing businesses, , and amenities. Supporting these objectives, the 2025 municipal budget allocates funds for improvements to small streets and the purchase of essential equipment, reinforcing efforts to build a more resilient local economy.

Government

Local Government Structure

Negaunee operates under a mayor-council form of government, as established by its city adopted in 1950. The serves as the presiding officer of the city council and acts as the ceremonial head of the city government, with no direct administrative authority over daily operations. The current is Craig Ilmonen, who was elected to a two-year term in the November 5, 2024, . The city council comprises seven members total, including the and six at-large councilors elected on a nonpartisan basis. Councilors serve staggered three-year terms to ensure continuity. Council members are limited to two consecutive terms. The council convenes monthly on the second Thursday at 7:00 p.m. in the Negaunee Senior Center to establish policies on budgeting, , and municipal services. Day-to-day administration is managed by an appointed , currently Nate Heffron, who oversees city operations and implements council directives. The city clerk, Judy Iwanski, maintains official records, conducts elections, and provides accounting support.

Public Services

The Public Works Department in Negaunee manages essential utilities and infrastructure, including water distribution (in coordination with the North Water Authority), wastewater and systems, operations, and maintenance of streets, alleys, sidewalks, and storm sewers. The department also oversees the City Hall building, the municipal cemetery, and related equipment, while providing support to other city operations as needed. Residents can contact the department for non-billing inquiries related to roads, water, wastewater, or electric services at (906) 475-9991 or via email to the director. The Negaunee Police Department emphasizes , working directly with residents to address local issues and build strong relationships through open communication and personalized service. Staffed by 10 members including a chief, , sergeants, and officers, the department promotes safety and integrity within the community. Non-emergency inquiries are handled at (906) 475-4154. The Negaunee Fire Department, a paid-on-call service established in 1868, primarily serves the city but extends coverage to Negaunee Township and surrounding areas through mutual aid agreements with neighboring departments in Marquette County. The department, staffed by on-call firefighters, responds to emergencies and issues burn permits, with administrative hours limited to specific evenings monthly; general contact is (906) 475-9811. Property assessments and taxation in Negaunee are administered by the Marquette County Equalization Department, which evaluates properties, recommends values, audits tax rolls, and provides guidance on tax matters to ensure fair taxation. For assessing questions, residents contact the county's Equalization Director at (906) 225-8405. Building code enforcement and permitting are handled through the Marquette County Building Codes Department, which reviews applications, conducts inspections, and ensures compliance with state and local standards for and in Negaunee. The city coordinates these processes via its Planning and Zoning Department, reachable at (906) 475-7700 ext. 12 for permit-related inquiries. In 2025, Negaunee adopted a Capital Improvements Plan outlining infrastructure investments through 2030, prioritizing street projects such as alley repairs and resurfacing ($195,000 in 2025), alongside facility upgrades including a Department of roof replacement ($140,000) and City Hall parking lot enhancements ($40,000). This plan, updated annually and aligned with the city's master plan, scores projects based on need, cost, and public input to guide funding and minimize disruptions.

Education

Negaunee Public Schools

Negaunee Public Schools is a public school district serving the city of Negaunee and surrounding areas in . The district enrolls approximately 1,515 students in grades PK-12 across three main schools: Lakeview Elementary School (PK-4), Negaunee Middle School (5-8), and Negaunee High School (9-12) as of the 2025-26 school year. It operates under a mission to foster intellectual, vocational, physical, creative, cultural, and social development through community partnerships. The district is led by Superintendent Andy Skewis, who assumed the role in summer 2025. The district has maintained strong academic performance, ranking in the top 20% of Michigan's 846 school districts based on combined math and reading proficiency testing data. In recent evaluations, Negaunee Public Schools placed 96th out of 523 districts overall and 65th for best teachers in the state, with individual schools like Negaunee Middle School ranking 123rd out of 890 middle schools and Negaunee High School 133rd out of 739 high schools. While proficiency rates remain above state averages—such as 61% in elementary reading and 48% in math—some metrics, including SAT scores for certain student groups, showed slight declines in the 2023-24 school year compared to prior years, reflecting broader post-pandemic recovery trends. In August 2025, voters renewed the district's millage to support building improvements, transportation upgrades, and school security measures. Educational programs emphasize hands-on learning connected to Negaunee’s mining heritage, with Negaunee High School located on the former Mather B Mine site, where students produce documentaries on local history as part of projects. Extracurricular activities include a wide array of sports such as football, , , wrestling, hockey, , , , , and , promoting physical development and community engagement. The district provides transportation via school buses for eligible students, adhering to strict safety policies that include prohibitions on passing stopped buses with flashing red lights. Bus routes and schedules are updated annually for the school year, with the 2024-25 schedule published to ensure efficient service.

Libraries and Resources

The Negaunee Public Library, located at 319 West Case Street in downtown Negaunee, serves as a central hub for informational, educational, and recreational resources, offering a collection of physical books, periodicals, and media alongside digital options such as eBooks, audiobooks, and an online catalog for holds and renewals. Patrons can access these materials through in-person visits, curbside pickup, or remote drop-off locations, including a dedicated box at Negaunee Hall. The library hosts programs tailored to all ages, including storytimes, book clubs, and community events, with recent enhancements focusing on expanded programming for teens and families. Youth engagement is a key emphasis, featuring an annual summer reading program for children aged 3 to teens up to 17, where participants track reading goals and earn incentives through themed activities. Additional offerings include Girls Who Code sessions to foster interest in technology and STEM-related workshops, as identified through community surveys guiding program development. Accessibility for individuals with disabilities is supported through recent facility upgrades, such as a new handicap ramp, stairs, and automated door openers completed in early 2025, alongside connections to Marquette County's Aging and Disability Resource Center for assistive technology and broader services. Adult learners benefit from proximity to Northern Michigan University's programs in Marquette, offering non-credit courses in and workforce skills accessible to Negaunee residents. The library's operations are primarily funded through city allocations, including voter-approved millages that provide stable support for Michigan public libraries, supplemented by competitive grants such as a $10,000 national award in 2024 for accessibility improvements and state aid via the Library Services and Technology Act for technology enhancements.

Transportation

Highways

Negaunee is served primarily by U.S. Highway 41, which runs east-west as the city's main arterial route and connects it to Marquette approximately 10 miles to the east. Concurrent with M-28 through much of the Upper Peninsula, this divided four-lane highway facilitates regional travel toward Ishpeming to the west and beyond to the . A business loop of M-28 also traverses the downtown area, providing access to local es along Lake Avenue, , and Silver Street. County Road 492 offers an important alternate route for local vehicular access, linking Negaunee northward to Marquette via an intersection with M-35 and addressing some at key junctions. The city's road network totals approximately 52.9 miles, with major streets maintained by the city and county roads overseen by the Marquette County Road Commission. In , the allocated funds for street reconstruction projects, including cold milling, hot-mix asphalt paving, and sidewalk replacements on select local roads, supported by a state grant for small-scale improvements. These efforts aim to enhance pavement conditions rated as fair to poor on about 40% of streets per recent assessments. volumes on US-41/M-28 through Negaunee remain moderate for a rural corridor, with an average annual daily traffic of about 17,600 vehicles recorded in 2010 at the Teal Lake Avenue segment.

Public Transit

Public transit in Negaunee is primarily served by the Marq-Tran system, operated by the Marquette County Transit Authority, which provides fixed-route bus services and options throughout Marquette County. The key fixed route connecting Negaunee is the Ishpeming-Negaunee-Marquette line, offering service approximately every hour during operating times on weekdays and Saturdays, linking residential and commercial areas in Negaunee to Ishpeming and Marquette. Fares for this route are $1.60 for the general public, with half-price reductions to $0.80 for seniors aged 60 and older, students with valid ID, veterans, and individuals with disabilities; preschoolers ride free with a paying adult. Complementing the main route, Marq-Tran operates a dedicated Negaunee Shopper route on Wednesdays, designed for errands such as grocery shopping and medical appointments within Negaunee and nearby stops. This deviated fixed route has fares of $0.80 for general riders and $0.40 for reduced-fare categories, including seniors, students, and disabled passengers. For those unable to use fixed routes, service is available county-wide, including Negaunee, seven days a week for ADA-eligible individuals, seniors, students, and people with disabilities; fares are mileage-based, starting at $2.60 for general public (one-way) and $1.30 for reduced fares, with a maximum of $5.60 per trip, and aides travel free with disabled passengers. Reservations can be made up to seven days in advance for eligible users. In 2025, Marq-Tran maintained its service levels despite minor state budget cuts that reduced funding to about 34.5% of operations, with no major route eliminations reported as of November. Negaunee has no local rail service or air hubs, so residents depend on Sawyer International Airport, roughly 20 miles southeast, which is accessible via Marq-Tran's Marquette-Sawyer-Gwinn route. For on-demand needs, taxi services like Checker Transport, based in Marquette, offer 24-hour coverage extending to Negaunee with sedan and van options. Carpooling is facilitated by Department of Transportation Park & Ride lots in Marquette County, including a newly paved facility on US-41 opened in 2025 to encourage shared rides.

Attractions

Historical Sites

Negaunee preserves several key sites that reflect its origins in the iron mining industry of 's Upper Peninsula. These locations offer insights into the community's early development from the mid-19th century onward, emphasizing preserved structures, ruins, and commemorative events tied to its mining heritage. The Michigan Iron Industry Museum, located at 73 Forge Road, stands on the ruins of the Jackson Mine and provides free access to exhibits detailing iron mining from the 1840s to the 1960s. The museum features dramatic displays, audio-visual programs, and outdoor hiking trails along the Iron Ore Heritage Trail, allowing visitors to explore the rugged landscape where early mining operations took place. It highlights the labor and technology of the , including the transition from forges to modern methods. Adjacent to the museum, the Carp River Forge site commemorates the first iron production facility in the region, established in 1847 as a forge by the Jackson Iron Company. Operating until 1855, the forge processed local ore into but was abandoned due to economic challenges; its stone foundations remain visible, demonstrating early techniques in a wooded ravine setting. The site underscores Negaunee's role in proving the viability of Upper iron resources, with interpretive markers explaining the process. The Negaunee Historical Society Museum, located at 303 East , is a four-story facility dedicated to the city's iron heritage and pioneer history. It features three floors of exhibits and artifacts, including a recreated 19th-century , tools, and photographs that illustrate Negaunee's development. Open seasonally with volunteer guides, the museum provides immersive insights into the lives of early settlers and workers. The annual Pioneer Days festival, held in July and organized by the Negaunee Irontown Association, celebrates the city's founding with reenactments, parades, music, and fireworks, drawing community participation to honor its pioneers. The weeklong event includes a princess pageant and concerts, fostering local pride in Negaunee's heritage. Negaunee's Downtown Historic District, listed on the in September 2021, encompasses buildings from the 1870s that illustrate the town's growth during the iron boom. Notable structures include the Breitung Hotel, originally built as a prominent lodging house named for early settler Edward Breitung, reflecting the architectural and social fabric of late-19th-century communities. The district preserves commercial and residential facades amid ongoing revitalization efforts.

Recreational Facilities

Negaunee offers a variety of recreational facilities that leverage the region's natural landscape and winter conditions for outdoor activities. The Upper Peninsula Luge Club operates the Lucy Hill Naturbahn Luge Track, the only full-length natural-track luge course in the United States, located on Lucy Hill in Negaunee. This 812.8-meter track features 29 curves and an 88-meter vertical drop, and it is operational during the winter months, providing public sliding sessions with instruction for beginners. The club's facilities support both recreational participants and competitive training for USA Luge athletes preparing for international events. Another prominent winter sports venue is the Suicide Hill Ski Jump, an international ski jumping site situated within the U.P. Nordic Ski Complex in Negaunee. Established in 1925, the complex includes a K-90 hill that accommodates jumps up to 90 meters, along with smaller jumps for training. It hosts annual tournaments, such as the longstanding Suicide Hill Ski Jump competition organized by the Ishpeming Ski Club, drawing competitors from across the region and beyond. For year-round non-motorized recreation, local segments of the Iron Ore Heritage Trail in Negaunee offer multi-use paths developed on former railroad lines, ideal for and biking. These trails form part of the larger 47-mile Iron Ore Heritage Trail system, connecting Negaunee to nearby communities and the Iron Ore Heritage Recreation Area while offering interpretive signage on the area's mining history. The paths provide scenic routes through wooded areas and urban edges, accommodating walkers, runners, and cyclists with varied surfaces including paved and crushed sections. Teal Lake serves as a key waterfront resource for water-based leisure, with public access points supporting fishing, , and other activities. The lake, prohibiting gas-powered motors to preserve tranquility, features boat launches at Al Quaal City Park and the Water Works site, enabling , canoeing, and non-motorized . Anglers target such as and , while the surrounding city parks include playgrounds for families and cleared areas for winter during the Upper Peninsula's snowy season.

Notable Residents

Politics and Public Service

Dominic Jacobetti (1920–1994), born in Negaunee to Italian immigrant parents, served as a Democratic member of the for 37 years from 1955 until his death, making him the longest-serving member in state history. As chair of the powerful House Appropriations Committee for over two decades, he earned the nickname "Mr. Upper Peninsula" for his staunch advocacy of regional interests, including mining industry support, infrastructure funding, and protections for "Yooper" communities against lower Michigan dominance. A former miner and representative, Jacobetti's conservative Democratic stance and influence extended to blocking movements for the Upper Peninsula while securing state resources for economic development in mining-dependent areas. Edward Breitung (1831–1887), a German-born iron magnate who settled in Negaunee in 1859, played a key role in the city's early growth through his operations, including the opening of the Washington Mine in 1864 and the Republic Mine in 1871. He served as mayor of Negaunee in 1879, 1880, and 1882, while also representing Marquette County in the House (1873–1874) and (1877–1878) as a Republican, focusing on committees for mines, minerals, railroads, and to bolster the region's industrial expansion. Breitung later represented in the U.S. House from 1883 to 1885, advocating for federal support in and policies that benefited Upper iron production. Other notable figures in Negaunee public service include local who shaped municipal governance amid the economy, such as Thomas L. Collins (1872–after 1935), a Republican-affiliated born in Negaunee who owned a prominent meat market and served as for 12 years before becoming mayor around 1925 and holding office into . Collins, a director of the Negaunee National Bank, contributed to community stability during economic shifts in the sector by promoting local and as an independent in city affairs. Such leaders influenced state-level policies indirectly through advocacy for regions, ensuring regulatory frameworks supported Upper resource extraction and worker protections.

Sports and Entertainment

Negaunee has produced several notable figures in sports officiating and , as well as in . Mark Ayotte, born in nearby Ishpeming in 1964, attended Negaunee High School and later became a prominent NBA referee. He joined the NBA in the 2004–05 season after officiating in the WNBA and CBA, working a total of 18 seasons until his termination in 2022 amid disputes over vaccination policies. Over his career, Ayotte officiated more than 1,000 regular-season games and several playoff contests, contributing to the league's professional standards through consistent assignments in high-profile matchups. Another key sports figure from Negaunee is Elmer Dayton Mitchell (1889–1983), who was born in the city and briefly managed its local team after graduating from the in 1911. Mitchell returned to the as its first varsity coach from 1917 to 1919, compiling a 21–12 record, and also served as an assistant football coach during that period. He is widely recognized as the "Father of " for establishing the 's intramural program in 1919, a model that influenced collegiate athletics nationwide by promoting widespread participation in physical activities. In the realm of entertainment, Steven Wiig (born 1972), who grew up in Negaunee and graduated from Negaunee High School in 1991, has built a career as an , , and filmmaker. Raised on the outskirts of the city in Michigan's Upper Peninsula, Wiig drew early inspiration from local woods and music before pursuing opportunities in . His notable film roles include a in Sean Penn's Into the Wild (2007), the liquor store owner McConnelly in Gus Van Sant's (2008), and a human survivor in Dawn of the Planet of the Apes (2014), alongside appearances in (2015) and (2018). Wiig has also worked as a , including drumming for bands and contributing to projects like the documentary Metallica: Some Kind of Monster (2004). The community's athletic heritage gained national attention on January 16, 1952, when Negaunee hosted an NBA regular-season game between the Hawks and Bullets at the Negaunee Memorial Gymnasium, with the Hawks winning 77–71; at the time, Negaunee held a of about 6,400, making it the smallest city ever to host such an event. This unusual occurrence, prompted by scheduling conflicts and weather delays, highlighted the town's enthusiasm for and reinforced its tradition of supporting competitive sports amid its mining history.

References

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