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In 1968, a pivotal event unfolded in the Copper Country, marking the end of an era in native copper mining. Chemical & Engineering News, in a little-read announcement on January 1st, revealed groundbreaking news that would have far-reaching consequences for the mining district. The article disclosed the planned merger between Universal Oil Products and Calumet & Hecla – a move that would reshape the landscape of the region.

Following the merger’s finalization in April, it became evident that Universal Oil Products had no illusions about the state of the Calumet copper mines. They were fully aware that the mines were depleted, with insufficient copper production to meet demands. Despite this, the true allure of Calumet & Hecla lay not in its Michigan copper deposits but in its diversified range of products and holdings. From specialty tubing to hardwood veneers and magnesium metal production, Calumet & Hecla boasted a varied portfolio – a factor that likely influenced Universal Oil Products’ decision to acquire the company.

By July, it was apparent just how little Universal Oil Products valued Calumet’s copper mining operations. With negotiations underway between the United Steelworkers AFL-CIO and Calumet officials regarding an expiring contract, a Securities and Exchange Commission statement revealed the sale of Calumet & Hecla shares by California Cold Storage & Distributing Company. This move signaled a significant shift in ownership and a decline in the once-prestigious status of Calumet & Hecla.

The decline in copper production was exacerbated by labor strikes in 1967, leading to a 20% decrease in recoverable metal output compared to the previous year. Mine closures, including Quincy’s reclamation plant and Copper Range’s Champion mine, further highlighted the industry’s struggles. By the start of 1968, only six mines remained operational on the Keweenaw Peninsula, all of which were owned by Calumet & Hecla. However, ownership changes soon ensued, with Universal Oil Products and California Cold Storage taking over by July, leading to heightened tensions between the companies and the union locals.

The escalating conflict reached a tipping point in August 1968 when the Calumet union local initiated a strike against the C&H mines. This move was met with resignation by many Copper Country residents, who viewed it as a typical occurrence in the region. Despite attempts at negotiation and mediation, the demands of the union local – particularly for wage parity with White Pine – remained a contentious issue.

The failure to reach a resolution led to mounting frustrations on both sides, with Universal Oil Products eventually announcing the closure of its Michigan operations in April 1969. The subsequent cessation of pumping at the Centennial mine in 1970 marked the definitive end of an era in native copper mining in the Copper Country. The closure of the mines symbolized the demise of an industry that had once been the lifeblood of the region, signaling a significant shift in the economic landscape of the area.