Keweenaw Architecture
As fledging mining towns, most business districts in the Keweenaw were shabby affairs. Built quickly and simply from wood, these small buildings would often be one of only a few in the town - most of which ended up being burnt down after a short period of time. But as the mine companies grew and prospered, a sense of stability began to influence the design and construction of these downtown businesses. Soon the cheap and temporary wood structures would be replaced by the stability and prestige of brick and stone - the modern Keweenaw metropolis had been born.
In the mining districts glory, mines such as C&H and Quincy promoted large bustling business districts to serve it. Multiple story department stores and opulent sandstone banks would anchor street corners and rise high above the dirt thoroughfares. Even the small businesses would be forced to conform or risk being left behind. Faux fronts and elaborate cornice pieces began to be placed along wooden structures, while distinctive terra cotta embellishments and sandstone trim became all the rage. Communities flourished and the buildings that survive to this day provide a glimpse to the prosperity that was.
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