Houghton County Historical Museum

In May, we drove to Michigan’s Upper Peninsula in search of historic landmarks.  Our visit to the Houghton County Historical Museum (53102 Hwy M-26, Lake Linden) was a good place for history.

After almost a week of clouds, rain, and cool temperatures, we finally have a day of blue skies and sunshine.   We arrive here on a Saturday evening about an hour before sunset.  The buildings are locked up but we are still able to walk around the grounds. 

The Houghton County Museum is a three-story brick building where you can learn about the history of copper mining and logging.  Volunteers try to have the museum open for the summer season (June-September).  Unfortunately, we are here in May.  I guess we will have to come back, won’t we!

Houghton County Museum

The red-colored Trap Rock Valley Schoolhouse (1914-1940) was used for 1^st through 8^th grades.   It was donated to the museum in 1979 and moved to the museum grounds in 1983.

Trap Rock Valley School

We don’t see the steam engine and train but the narrow-gauge tracks circle the property.   We do see a caboose and the Mineral Range Depot.

Caboose & Trap Rock Valley Schoolhouse

Mineral Range Depot

Narrow-Gauge Railroad Tracks

Ride the Train

This log cabin was one of two located in the village of Lake Linden that was built in the 1940’s. It has been restored and dedicated to Leo Chaput recognizing his long-time volunteer service at the Historical Society..    

Leo Chaput Cabin

Across the street are two churches - the Lake Linden Methodist Episcopal Church (1893) and the First Congregational Church (1887).  The Congregational Church is now used as the Historical Society Heritage Center. 

Methodist Episcopal Church

First Congregational Chu

Family vacations created some of my favorite memories. To start planning your memorable trip to Lake Linden and the Houghton County Historical Museum, please click on the following link:

Houghton County Museum

Your widest selection of food and lodging options would be available in Houghton (about 11 miles – approximately 17 minutes drive depending on traffic). Some food and lodging options would be available in Hancock (about 11 miles), Calumet (about 5 miles, and Laurium (about 4 miles). Since opinions, budgets, and preferences vary, I recommend checking a trusted travel source for current reviews on food and lodging.