Ironwood

Ironwood is a city in Michigan's Upper Peninsula, situated near the Montreal River and Wisconsin border. The town features brick buildings from its mining era, with residential streets spreading across a river valley surrounded by forested hills.

The city was named by mining captain James Wood in 1885 and grew rapidly after the railroad arrived. Iron ore extraction made the town prosperous for decades, driving its expansion and bringing thousands of workers to the region.

The town reflects the heritage of immigrant groups who arrived to work in the mines and stayed to build their communities. You can see this history today in the different neighborhoods and the local traditions that different families brought with them.

The best way to reach the town is by car via US Highway 2, which connects it to surrounding areas. Plan visits during warmer months if you want to explore the outdoors, as winters are long and cold in this part of Michigan.

The local Carnegie Library, built in 1904, holds the record as Michigan's longest continuously operating library of its kind. The building retains its original details and continues to serve the community today.

Location: Gogebic County

Elevation above the sea: 459 m

Website: http://cityofironwood.org

GPS coordinates: 46.45472,-90.17111

Latest update: December 19, 2025 22:38