About the Historic District
Although it has seen many changes over the years, Calumet’s downtown area still retains much of its historic appearance and feeling. For these qualities, and its importance to the history of the region, state, and nation, the district has been listed in the National Register of Historic Places and as a National Historic Landmark. In addition, the entire downtown area is included within the boundaries of Keweenaw National Historical Park, established in 1992.
Calumet’s Civic and Commercial Historical District has also been given local historic district status under Michigan’s Local Historic District Act because of its historical significance and distinctive design characteristics. By regulating work on properties within the district, the Historic District Commission seeks to maintain and enhance the character-defining features that contribute to the district’s significance. An understanding of the district’s history and architecture is key to this preservation effort.