Union City in Branch County, Michigan — The American Midwest (Great Lakes)
Union City Iron Furnace
Photographed by Duane Hall, May 17, 2013
1. Union City Iron Furnace Marker
On March 17, 1847, the Union City Iron Company was incorporated with leading citizens of the town as stockholders. The company was formed to produce iron from the bog and kidney iron ore deposits in Union and neighboring townships. A furnace was built, and in May, 1847, it produced what was apparently the first iron made from Michigan ores. Earlier Michigan iron furnaces used imported pig iron. The percentage of iron in southern Michigan's ores was too small, however, to maker their use profitable. Thus, in a few years Union City's pioneering furnace ceased making pig iron and turned to the production of plows.
Erected by Michigan Historical Commission. (Marker Number L28.)
Topics and series. This historical marker is listed in this topic list: Industry & Commerce. In addition, it is included in the Michigan Historical Commission series list. A significant historical date for this entry is March 17, 1847.
Location. 42° 3.926′ N, 85° 7.892′ W. Marker is in Union City, Michigan, in Branch County. It is on Coldwater Street 0.1 miles east of Crane Street, on the right when traveling east. Touch for map. Marker is in this post office area: Union City MI 49094, United States of America. Touch for directions.
Regionally, this marker is in Southwest Michigan. It is also in the American Midwest and on the Great Lakes. Globally, it is in North America, the Western Hemisphere, the Western World, and the Anglosphere. Historically, it finds itself in what was once the Northwest Territory.
Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker: The St. Joe Tavern & The Bucket (about 500 feet away, measured in a direct line);
this page online
Photographed by Duane Hall, May 17, 2013
2. Union City Iron Furnace Marker
Photographed by Duane Hall, May 17, 2013
3. Close-Up of Marker Graphic
Credits. This page was last revised on November 25, 2024. It was originally submitted on June 9, 2013, by Duane Hall of Abilene, Texas. This page has been viewed 780 times since then and 32 times this year. Photos: 1, 2, 3. submitted on June 9, 2013, by Duane Hall of Abilene, Texas. • Bernard Fisher was the editor who published this page.
