The iron ore industry was a major economic driver for this area for nearly 100 years. At one time, there were 78 mines in operation in Iron County with the last (Sherwood Mine) closing in 1978. 

This museum complex, which now has 25 buildings and more than 100 exhibits, was formerly the site of the Caspian Mine. Opened by the Verona Mining Company, the Caspian Mine shipped 6,623,320 tons of ore between 1903-1937. The headframe, which now serves as a spectacular landmark, stands over a flooded mine shaft that plunges 539 feet deep and is the oldest of its kind still standing in Michigan! The headframe and the engine house are the only buildings still standing that were here when the property was a mine. All the other buildings were brought here from other parts of Iron County or built to serve our guests and mission.

In 1963 a group of interested Iron County citizens got together to talk about how they could preserve the culture and heritage of the county which was changing rapidly as the mines closed. In 1978, the original exhibits were opened honoring the primary industries of mining, logging and farming. Over the decades buildings were ‘saved’ throughout Iron County by being brought to the museum.  We continue to serve our community by preserving our heritage, providing space and opportunity for cultural engagement and being an integral part of lives and memories of our friends, neighbors and visitors

This museum is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. We do not receive any tax base or millage. Our money comes from the activities and fundraisers we organize, the occasional grants we are able to procure and most importantly -your donations. Please consider us as you decide where to put your donation dollars. Please also consider us as you decide where to spend your volunteer hours.

BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Our museum has a board of directors, all of whom donate their time. As of January 2026, our board officers are: Denise Maloney, President, Jason Smedlund VP, Barry Scalcucci, Treasurer and Jocelyn Javoroski, Secretary.  Members at large are: Sharon Stocker-Ryden, Brenda Grubbs, Sandie Nies, Jeannie Holm and Rylee Crevier .