Discover the traditional arts and crafts of Michigan's iron ranges

When the first settlers began to work and live in Michigan’s iron ranges in the mid-19th century, it seemed like pure wilderness. The nearest store for provisions like food, tools, clothing and more was hundreds of miles away. Fortunately, the settlers had the skills to make much of what they needed. In addition to miners, the settlers often were blacksmiths, bladesmiths, woodworkers, spinners, weavers, knitters and makers of other important goods and services.

To celebrate this industrious spirit, the Michigan Iron Industry Museum will host a traditional arts and crafts event on its grounds Saturday, Aug. 4, and Sunday, Aug. 5. The “Artisans at the Forge” event will be open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. each day. Admission is free.

“This event captures the sights, sounds and smells of 19th- and early 20th-century enterprise in the area,” said museum historian Troy Henderson. “Visitors can watch active blacksmiths, bladesmiths, woodworkers and other traditional trades on the museum grounds, interact with the artisans and shop for goods crafted by the artisans.”

Costumed craftsmen and women participating in this year’s event include:

• Bladesmith Dan Choszczyk of Champion
• Wool spinner Cassandra Haapapuro of Gwinn
• Blacksmith George Potvin of Bark River
• Blacksmith Dena Bliss of Sault Ste. Marie
• Printmaker Laura Maze of Republic
• Woodworker Russ Dees of Wilson

Each artisan will have handmade products for sale to the public, including hand-forged decorations, knives and jewelry. 

“It is a great way to learn through experience as well as support these traditional artisans,” Henderson noted.

Michigan Iron Industry Museum

73 Forge Road
Negaunee, MI 49866

Hours:
May 1 - Oct. 31: Daily, 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Nov. 1 - April 30: Wednesday - Friday, 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. First Saturday each month, 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Admission: Free
Some special programs have fees for participation or parking.

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