GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (WOOD) — History books have a lot to say about the 19th century California gold rush, but Michigan’s mining history doesn’t as get much mention. Although Michigan has a rich mining history, it often goes overlooked in comparison to the California Gold Rush.
While the Wolverine State is known for other minerals, gold can be found across Michigan, as well. Michigan’s mining roots extend beyond just minerals like copper, iron, and silver.
Michigan’s mining roots can be traced back to one man, while the pursuit of gold in Michigan centers around another.
MICHIGAN’S FIRST STATE GEOLOGIST
Douglass Houghton was born in New York in 1809 and made his way to Michigan after graduating college. In 1830, when Territorial Gov. Lewis Cass put out a call for guest lecturers on science, a former professor recommended Houghton and he quickly became recognized as an expert.
The next year, Houghton was drafted into the field by Henry Schoolcraft, chosen to help lead an expedition to find the source of the Mississippi River. Houghton’s early expertise in geology and exploration laid the foundation for Michigan’s mining legacy.
MINING BOOM IN MICHIGAN
Because of his experience and expertise, when Michigan was granted statehood in 1837, leaders named Houghton the official state geologist.
Lindsay Hultinen, a university archivist at Michigan Technological University, explains how Houghton’s exploration sparked a significant mining boom, well before the famed California Gold Rush.
“The news traveled quickly, so people really wanted to sort of catch on that fever,” she said. “It really was the copper boom first. By 1843, we were seeing a lot of prospectors and surveyors coming in to open up copper mines in the western Upper Peninsula.”
LEGACY OF THE ROPES GOLD MINE
At least one individual, Julius Ropes, found success in gold mining in Michigan. Ropes established the Ropes Mine about 5 miles northwest of Ishpeming and managed to extract notable amounts of gold and silver over a 15-year period.
The financial success of the Ropes Mine is a testament to the potential for valuable mineral deposits in Michigan, beyond just copper and iron.
SEARCHING FOR GOLD IN MICHIGAN
Michigan’s gold deposits left by glaciers during the last ice age continue to intrigue prospectors. While significant vein deposits suitable for commercial extraction are rare, recreational gold panning is allowed in certain state-owned areas.
According to the Michigan Department of Natural Resources, enthusiasts can try their hand at gold panning in designated spots across the state, with some restrictions in place to protect critical habitats.
If interest and prices rise, Michigan’s gold mining history could see a revival in the future.
