A memorial plaque rests on the cement cap covering the entrance to the Barnes-Hecker Mine that is the site of the worst mining disaster in Michigan history. The mine's workers unknowingly set off a charge that caused an underground lake to drain into the shafts, killing 51 men in 15 minutes. There was only one survivor. The mine is still the grave for 41 of the miners who died there in November 1926. (Mining Journal file photo)

ISHPEMING — Ely Township has purchased nearly 20 acres of the Barnes Hecker Mine property and surrounding lands and have a goal to set up a memorial park in time for the 100th anniversary of the tragedy.

The Barnes Hecker Mine disaster was a cave-in that took place in November 1926 and saw 51 men die in the mine with only one surviving.

“Plans are as follows,” said Glenn Wing, Ely Township clerk. “First, develop a garden park around the shaft area, which will include a quiet area of reflection with shade trees, bushes and a flower garden. Seating will be benches and displays that will include the current monument, two statues and informational plaques. The area will be handicap accessible with an adjacent parking lot and bathroom; install a paved walking trail of about 1,800 feet that ends at an overlook of the lake that makes up the caved portion of the mine; 51 informational plaques, one for each miner that died, will placed along the trail; upgrade and pave entry road and a paved parking lot; rebuild the upper part of the machinery house and use for related displays and storage; and develop two snowshoe trails for winter access.”

The purchase price was $115,000 for 19.8 acres from a private owner.

“We are very excited to purchase the property and develop a park that honors and respects the the sacrifices these men made,” Wing said. “We are going to work hard to have the shaft park and walking trail done for the 100th anniversary.”

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Antonio Anderson can be reached at 906-228-2500, ext. 550, or aanderson@miningjournal.net.