PAINESDALE, Mich. (WZMQ) – A Keweenaw Heritage Site has received an America250 grant from the state to help complete a long-time restoration project.
The Painesdale Mine & Shaft is home to the oldest remaining shaft-rockhouse in the area, and has been a Keweenaw Heritage site since June of 2023.
After the Champion Mine closed in 1967, the site’s underground water pumps were able to provide clean water to numerous surrounding communities. Since the 1990’s, this system has moved about a mile off-site, and even still provides water all the way up to Hancock.
The grant will provide the mine’s preservation team with $13,000, following a 15% match. The funds will go towards roof repairs on the original water tank building, along with more informational signage in the area.
“We’re really happy to receive this grant because it allows us to complete a project that we’ve been working on for the past two years,” said Painesdale Mine & Shaft volunteer and Board Treasurer, Vince Kanthak. “This building represents the last part of the Copper Range Company water utility.”
The mine will begin summer touring season by the start of June. More information can be found here.
