Marquette County, Michigan
Marquette County is a county located in the Upper Peninsula of the U.S. state of Michigan. As of the 2020 census, the population was 66,017, making it the most populous county in the Upper Peninsula. The county seat is Marquette, which is also the largest city in the county. Marquette County is known for its historical significance in the iron mining industry, its vibrant cultural scene, and its access to the natural beauty of Lake Superior and the surrounding forests.
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History
Marquette County was established in 1843 and organized in 1851. It was named after Jacques Marquette, a French Jesuit missionary and explorer who played a significant role in the early exploration of the Great Lakes region. The area was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Ojibwa.
The discovery of iron ore in the mid-19th century led to a boom in mining, making Marquette County a key player in Michigan’s mining industry. The city of Marquette became an important port for shipping iron ore across the Great Lakes. Over time, the county diversified its economy to include tourism, education, and healthcare, while mining remains a significant industry.
Geography
According to the United States Census Bureau, Marquette County has a total area of 3,425 square miles, of which 1,808 square miles is land and 1,617 square miles (47.2%) is water, making it the largest county in Michigan by total area. The county is located in the central part of the Upper Peninsula and is bordered by:
- Alger County to the east
- Delta County to the southeast
- Menominee County to the southwest
- Dickinson County to the west
- Baraga County to the northwest
- Lake Superior to the north
Key geographic features of Marquette County include:
- **Lake Superior**: The county’s northern border is defined by Lake Superior, offering stunning views, beaches, and recreational opportunities.
- **Huron Mountains**: Located in the northwestern part of the county, these rugged hills are some of the highest in Michigan.
- **Presque Isle Park**: A scenic park in Marquette offering hiking trails, picnic areas, and views of Lake Superior.
- **Dead River Basin**: A reservoir popular for fishing and boating.
Economy
Marquette County’s economy is diverse, with major sectors including mining, education, healthcare, and tourism. Key industries include:
- **Mining**: The county remains a significant producer of iron ore, with active mines such as the Tilden Mine and Eagle Mine contributing to the local economy.
- **Tourism**: Natural attractions, including Lake Superior, hiking trails, and ski resorts, make the county a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
- **Education**: Northern Michigan University (NMU) in Marquette is a major employer and educational institution in the region.
- **Healthcare**: The county is home to UP Health System - Marquette, a regional medical center serving the Upper Peninsula.
Communities
Marquette County includes two cities, several townships, and unincorporated communities.
- Marquette (city): The county seat and largest city, known for its historic downtown, waterfront, and cultural events.
- Ishpeming (city): A city with a rich history in iron mining, home to the National Ski Hall of Fame and numerous historical sites.
- Negaunee (city): Located near Ishpeming, Negaunee is another historically significant mining community and a gateway to outdoor recreation.
Townships
Marquette County is divided into 19 townships:
- Champion Township
- Chocolay Township
- Ely Township
- Ewing Township
- Forsyth Township
- Humboldt Township
- Ishpeming Township
- Marquette Township
- Michigamme Township
- Negaunee Township
- Powell Township
- Republic Township
- Richmond Township
- Sands Township
- Skandia Township
- Tilden Township
- Turin Township
- Wells Township
- West Branch Township
Parks and Recreation
Marquette County offers numerous parks and recreational opportunities, including:
- **Presque Isle Park**: A popular park in Marquette offering trails, beaches, and picnic facilities along Lake Superior.
- **Sugarloaf Mountain**: A hiking destination with panoramic views of Lake Superior and the surrounding forests.
- **Marquette Mountain Resort**: A ski resort offering winter sports and activities.
- **Huron Mountain Club**: A private nature reserve located in the Huron Mountains, known for its pristine wilderness.
Demographics
As of the 2020 census, Marquette County had a population of 66,017. The population is predominantly White, with smaller percentages of Native American, African American, and Hispanic residents. The county includes a mix of urban, suburban, and rural areas, with most residents concentrated in the cities of Marquette, Ishpeming, and Negaunee.
Education
Marquette County is served by several school districts:
Higher education opportunities include:
- Northern Michigan University: A public university located in Marquette, offering undergraduate and graduate programs in a variety of disciplines.
Transportation
Marquette County is served by several major highways:
- U.S. Route 41: Runs east-west through the county, connecting Marquette to other communities in the Upper Peninsula.
- M-28: An east-west highway providing access to nearby counties and scenic routes along Lake Superior.
The county is also served by the Sawyer International Airport, located in Forsyth Township, providing regional air travel services.
See Also
References
- United States Census Bureau. "QuickFacts: Marquette County, Michigan."
- Michigan Department of Natural Resources. "Presque Isle Park."
- Romig, Walter. Michigan Place Names. Detroit: Wayne State University Press, 1986.
