Discovering the U.P. broadcasted their 80th episode on TV 6 last night. The episode shared the 5-year partnership between the Chassell Heritage Center, the Michigan Technological University Social Sciences, the Keweenaw Time Traveler, Chassell High School and a dedicated group of volunteers that brought about the creation of the Chassell Heritage Trail. 

The trail shares the, often overlooked, story of the lumber milling operations in Chassell.  The Keweenaw Time Traveler not only helps guests visualize the former mill landscape through historic maps, but also works to interpret the site for children through a digital storybook trail. 'Stanley the Strawberry's Great Adventure' is designed to engage young children in the history of the lumber industry in Chassell. ​In this short children's book Stanley the Strawberry discovers this forgotten past with the help of Sheila the Shingle and friends.

Work on the trail was extensive. It involved historical research and site archeology done by members of the Michigan Technological University Social Sciences Department. Chassell Township School students helped design the interpretive signs based on this research. A generous grant from the John and Melissa Besse Foundation made this work possible.

The grand opening of the trail took place in July, 2023. The trail is free and open to all.

Students in the Department of Social Sciences study away program in Detroit collaborated with community partners in the Jefferson-Chalmers neighborhood of the city.  Students produced 4 storymaps that highlight the history, sustainability, and resilience of the neighborhood as it has grappled with racial segregation, urban renewal, and climate change induced flooding.


Click on the link below to explore these storymaps, watch live presentations on the area's history, and learn more about the neighborhood: