Development of the IOHT kiln project good for the area
History buffs and just anyone who enjoys the Iron Ore Heritage Trail have an opportunity to support an effort that aims to resurrect the historical Carp River beehive kiln and feature it on the new destination plaza along the IOHT.
Anyone who frequents the Marquette area is familiar with the kiln. It stood south of the city on the west side of U.S. 41 for more than a century until 2016, when it collapsed after days of heavy rain.
According to a Mining Journal story on the issue, the Iron Ore Heritage Recreation Authority wants to develop a new plaza at the southern entrance of Marquette along the trail, featuring the resurrected kiln as the main attraction.
The spot is located just north of the Carp River and was the site of the furnace complex from 1874-1902. Kilns were used to burn wood into charcoal, which fed blast furnaces that converted iron ore and limestone into a substance called pig iron.
A fundraiser hopes to raise $25,000. The state of Michigan has said it will chip in with a matching $25,000 if the local goal is met.
Because the area is so thoroughly steeped in mining history, and the IOHT has proven its worth time and again as a key local resource, we recommend readers seriously consider a donation to this cause.
Contributors can donate at patronicity. com/project/carp_river_kiln_gateway_plaza#!/ at various levels.
People who wish to donate by cash or check can send their donations to the Iron Ore Heritage Trail, 102 W. Washington St., Suite 232, Marquette, MI 49855.