Houghton is a city located in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan, situated on the Keweenaw Peninsula. It was founded in 1852 as a mining town during the copper boom in the area. The city was named after Douglass Houghton, the state geologist of Michigan who was integral in discovering the copper deposits in the region. Houghton quickly grew into a prosperous city due to the mining industry, attracting immigrants from all over the world.
Houghton has been home to many notable figures throughout its history, including George Shiras III, a pioneering wildlife photographer, and Douglass Houghton, the city's namesake and a prominent geologist.
Over the years, Houghton has seen fluctuations in its population due to the boom and bust cycles of the mining industry. Currently, the city has a population of around 7,700 residents.
Houghton is located on the shore of Portage Lake, with the Keweenaw Waterway separating it from the neighboring city of Hancock. The surrounding area is characterized by rolling hills, dense forests, and numerous inland lakes, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
While the mining industry no longer drives Houghton's economy, the city has diversified into education, healthcare, and tourism. Michigan Technological University is a major employer in the area, along with the healthcare sector and local businesses catering to tourists.
Houghton has a rich cultural heritage, influenced by the diverse immigrant populations that settled in the area during the mining boom. The city hosts numerous cultural events, festivals, and art galleries that showcase the region's history and traditions.