To the Journal editor:

I wanted to do something fun with my son who was up visiting for two days from Ypsilanti. On a whim, I knew what we could do for the day.

I had driven by the Gossard building all my life and now they have a wonderful Ishpeming Historical Society Office and Museum on the third floor. There’s an elevator, too, to get you up there.

I found it fascinating because, there was not only information on the Gossard but also many of Ishpeming’s historic buildings. The Mather Inn, the schools and stores. And it brought back many memories of old stores and shops we no longer have.

They had many pictures from the movie “Anatomy of a Murder,” which I love collecting information on. It is open on Fridays from 11 a.m.-2 p.m.. I worked at the Mather Inn after high school way back in 1968. It was so much fun.

We also went to the Cliffs Shaft Museum in Ishpeming. My dad worked in underground mines when he was younger. The man who led the tour was so interesting and sure knew everything there was to know. We got to walk down underground in the tunnels.

It helped me know what life was like for the underground miners. It was informative to learn about the different qualities of iron ore and see the big truck at the end of the tour, only to find out that this was replaced by trucks that are even bigger! two-thirds bigger!

It’s hard to believe! I had always driven by and would think, one of these days, it would be nice to visit these places but never did. I am so glad that I finally decided to go. It was so worth it!

See our history in pictures and words — for yourself and relive wonderful memories right here in our back yard.

We have other great places too in Negaunee which I have been to. I plan on going back again next summer and taking more people with me.

We sure live in a great area! It was a great experience for both of us.