Michigan Iron Industry Museum Adds Forge Artifacts To Permanent Exhibit

New objects excavated by Michigan Technological University archaeologists that are being added to the permanent exhibits will be among the highlights of the Michigan Iron Industry Museum’s open house Sunday, May 17.

The artifacts expand the interpretation of the Carp River Forge, located across the river from the museum. The forge was the first iron manufactory in the Lake Superior region. The artifacts include industrial and domestic objects. There are also new interactive experiences and new graphics.

The exhibit will be unveiled at the museum’s open house, which also features free White Water concerts at 1 and 2:30 p.m. “Before the concert or between White Water sets, visitors will have a great chance to see some of the exhibit changes that have taken place,” said Troy Henderson, historian at the Michigan Iron Industry Museum.

The museum also announced it has named its auditorium the William G. Mather Auditorium and its permanent gallery Cliffs Gallery for contributions in support of the museum’s work.

At 12:45 p.m. (before White Water’s first concert set), Sandra Clark, director of the Michigan Historical Center, will introduce the new exhibit and future exhibit plans in the museum auditorium. At approximately 2 p.m., a ribbon-cutting for the new exhibit in Cliffs Gallery will take place.

The open house and concert mark the start of a summerlong series of family-friendly programs and events at the museum. Light refreshments will be served; seating is limited; and admission is free, but donations are encouraged. The Michigan Iron Industry Museum is located in Negaunee Township, on U.S. 41 East, 1 mile west of M-35.

The Michigan Iron Industry Museum is one of 11 nationally accredited museums administered by the Michigan Historical Center, an agency within the Department of Natural Resources. It overlooks the site of the Carp River Forge, a pioneer industrial site listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The museum is open daily from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. For information about the open house or upcoming events at the museum, call 906-475-7857 or visit www.michigan.gov/ironindustrymuseum.

The Department of Natural Resources is committed to the conservation, protection, management, accessible use and enjoyment of the state’s natural and cultural resources for current and future generations.  Learn more at www.michigan.gov/dnr.