Discover the unique history of the Upper Peninsula
The 74th Annual Upper Peninsula History Conference
Iron Mountain - June 23-25, 2023
Each year, the Historical Society of Michigan hosts a conference tailored only to U.P.-based history. Our 74th Annual U.P. History Conference was held in Iron Mountain and featured a fun, casual atmosphere with keynotes, content sessions, tours, delicious food, and more.
The 2023 Conference Content
From keynotes to tours, this weekend filled with history was a true treat to the history buff and historian alike. Samples of our content are below.
Hounds in History: Yooper Dogs at Work and Play
Inspired by the four-legged friends that grace the history of Michigan, this keynote provided a glimpse at dogs in the Upper Peninsula from the late 1800s onward. From sled dogs that ran postal routes to faithful family companions, this session offered anecdotes coupled with rich images.
Soiled Doves: Prostitution on the Menominee Range
Prostitution played a significant role in many mining and logging areas. In the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries, the Menominee Iron Range—with a red-light district known as “The Midway” and notorious figures such as Old Man Mudge—was no exception.
Industrial Roots: Cornish Pump & Mining Museum
We joined an experienced guide to learn about the largest U.S.-built steam-driven pumping engine, and tour the mining museum and adjacent local history museum. This tour was one of the exciting options available during our Friday conference content!
Calling all Sponsors, Exhibitors, and Michigan Vendors!
Are you a Michigan-based entity with a passion for supporting Michigan's culture or history? Are you a Michigan business looking to reach history enthusiasts and active Michiganders? Join the Historical Society of Michigan as a conference sponsor, exhibitor, or vendor. There are many different types of partnerships available. Please click on the Become an Exhibitor link below or call (800) 692-1828 to speak with a member of our team today.
Future Conferences
75th Annual Upper Peninsula History Conference
June 21-23, 2024
Sault Ste Marie, MI – Lake Superior State University
Recent Conferences
74th Annual Upper Peninsula History Conference
June 23-25, 2023
Iron Mountain/Kingsford, MI - Kingsford High School
73rd Annual Upper Peninsula History Conference
June 24-25, 2022
Virtual
Program
72nd Annual Upper Peninsula History Conference
June 25–26, 2021
Bay Mills/Brimley, MI – Virtual
Program
71st Annual Upper Peninsula History Conference
June 19-21, 2020
Bay Mills/Brimley, MI – Cancelled
70th Annual Upper Peninsula History Conference
June 28-30, 2019
Escanaba, MI – Bay College
Program
Get the most out of Michigan's history
If you're considering attending one of our conferences, or are already an attendee, we encourage you to check out our HSM membership program. With significant discounts to all of our conferences and events, the membership is a great way to save and enjoy all of our additional history content. All HSM members receive conference discounts, free access to weekly History Hounds® live lectures and previously recorded lectures, both Michigan History and Chronicle magazines, and more.
Questions?
We'd love to help! Reach out to our HSM staff today at hsm@hsmichigan.org or by calling us at (517) 324-1828.