We spent about two hours exploring this historic company town that was used for smelting ore. Old buildings that have been restored and with historic footnotes as to the history and what life was like at that time. It is set in a idyllic bay that you can boat into and berth for the night. Have lived in Michigan for my whole life and had never heard about it, but it is a must see and family friendly. Need a recreation state park pass.
This place reminds me of Greenfield Village, only the entire town was together all the time. It is super interesting to see the kilns and the enormous furnaces that were used for iron smelting. The state parks really have some great attractions. I am so glad I get the recreation passport with my car registration each year!The kids liked the kids' house that is there. They played checkers and such. Otherwise, this seems to be better for older kids and adults.
This is a state park like none you've ever experienced. In the late 1800's it was a community focused on smelting iron ore. The town is surrounded by beautiful limestone cliffs and set on a bay that still boasts the old wooden posts that used to support the docks. Walking around the town, peering into the buildings, reading the postings about the towns people is nostalgic and special. This is worth your time!
Very nicely preserved historical area, a former iron ore smelting town.The nearby limestone cliffs, which were quarried for use in the smelting process are very beautiful. Several of the buildings were constructed of limestone as well and have stood the test of time. There is a visitor center, containing an audio diorama that tells the story of Fayette. Handicapped access would be difficult due to the steep grade. It is self-guided, and requires a Michigan State Park Pass, which can be purchased at the visitor center.
Fayette Historic Park is one of best visits you can make anywhere. This old ghost town is restored, with cool buildings, foundry, roads and port. The visitor's center has a wonderful replica of the town and a great narrative on why this town was built in the 1800s, and why it ended. The history is amazing, telling a hard story of immigrants coming from Europe, seeking a new life in the United States.
We wouldn't have know about this if someone hadn't mentioned it before we left for the UP. We were so glad we made our way to this park. It is a little off the beaten track, but a beautiful drive. It was so interesting to see the remnants of a true "company town" and to learn how it functioned and then just closed up when the mining was done. We walked the entire site and the signage was excellent. Afterward we found out they do guided tours. We did not take advantage of that as we had covered everything, but I think it would be worthwhile to take the tour. Might be worth calling ahead to find out when they are scheduled. Part of the state park system.
This is a really interesting state park. Used to be a company town in the 1880's, really interesting to look around the old buildings. Even better is the location. Really beautiful little harbor, trails for walking outside of the "town" area as well. Would love to go back another time to explore even more.
If you are near this area (souther central UP of Michigan) make the trip. It is a state park that used to be a company town circa 1880. They smelted iron ore and produced pigs of steel to ship downstate. Does not require much time, you can see everything in about 3 hours and not be rushed. Very humbling to see how it was "back in the day". We are planning to return in not sooner than 10 years to see how Michigans funding of the parks is working. This park (city)is currently under a very slow refurbishment. This is a Michigan state park, if you have the pass, there is no fee for the site.
Fayette State Park is an extremely well restored community that was once a home to a large iron ore smelting business. It was described as a ghost town but I think it is a great example of life in the late 1800s. Inside the restored buildings are many interesting artifacts and photographs. It is easy to imagine what life must have been like when the Smelter was in operation. The restoration on the buildings is on on going process and is documented throughout the park.I was very impressed with the entire park. The visitor center provides you with a short history of the community which is very helpful. It was a nice walk with beautiful views.
Went early in Morning, and no one was there. Spent 3 hours walking around and looking at the great set up. Very easy walking, and great place to wander around and see how people lived in the 1870s. Park staff was nice and helpful. The view of cliffs from the harbor is something, and was impressed with the entire park. very clean, and well taken care of.