Few People Realize How Much Mining History Is Preserved In The Small Town Of Hancock, Michigan

Everyone knows that the Great Lake State has a rich automobile manufacturing history. Ford and General Motors are the largest employers in the state but a different industry, Copper mining, was booming many years ago. You can still experience the preserved history of Copper Country in the mining town of Hancock, Michigan.

Hancock is a small city with less than 4,500 residents and is known as the gateway to the Keweenaw Peninsula in the Upper Peninsula.

Right in the heart of Copper Country, the town was founded by the Quincy Mining Company in 1859 during the Keweenaw copper mining boom.

The town was the site of brass foundries, mining machinery factories, and the Hancock Mine but was well known for the famous Quincy Mine. Lovingly nicknamed “Old Reliable”, the mine continuously produced precious copper for 83 years.

Through the hard work of thousands of miners, Quincy Mine stockholders received millions in dividends. The mine operated until 1945, but the city of Hancock has since adapted to a new type of industry.

Hancock now focuses on tourism and showing visitors its charming history, quirky art scene, and eclectic shops. But it has not forgotten its past and Quincy Mine still stands tall over the small town.

As part of its tourism, you can tour Quincy Mine and see the history for yourself. Make sure to visit Hancock the next time you’re in the Upper Peninsula so you can learn about Michigan’s copper mining history.

Have you Taken A Tour Of The Quincy Mine? Let us know about your experience in the comments below. If you would like to share an interesting piece of Michigan history, submit a nomination form and we may write about it. While you’re in Hancock, check out This Michigan Seafood Spot That Offers Fresh Food Cooked Straight From The Boat.