Ontonagon Live Cam
A beautiful village in the Upper Peninsula
History
Ontonagon is a historic and picturesque community located in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan, USA. The name "Ontonagon" is derived from an Ojibwe word meaning "dish" or "bowl," possibly referring to the shape of the Ontonagon River's mouth where it enters Lake Superior. The area is known for its rich history, which includes Native American settlement, European exploration, fur trading, mining, and more. Here's an overview of Ontonagon's history:
- Native American Presence: The Ontonagon area was inhabited by Native American peoples, primarily Ojibwe (Chippewa) and Ottawa tribes, long before European settlement. These indigenous groups relied on the region's abundant natural resources for their livelihoods, including fishing, hunting, and gathering.
- European Exploration: The first European explorers to arrive in the Ontonagon region were likely French fur traders and explorers during the 17th and 18th centuries. They established trade relationships with the Native American populations to exchange furs for European goods.