Michigan’s Upper Peninsula and the State of Superior
The idea of a “State of Superior”, a proposed 51st state has been discussed for decades. The goal is to create a separate state for Michigan’s Upper Peninsula (U.P.). Named for Lake Superior, this theoretical state would draw boundaries around the U.P. It could potentially include parts of northern Wisconsin, northern Michigan, and even parts of Minnesota. The idea is inspired by cultural differences, geographic separation from the Lower Peninsula. The belief among Upper Peninsula residents is that their distinct needs are often overlooked by Michigan’s political leaders.
Early Concepts of Separation
The dream of a separate state encompassing the Upper Peninsula is not new. In the late 1700s, Thomas Jefferson proposed a state he called “Sylvania,” which would include much of the land now known as Michigan’s U.P., along with parts of northern Wisconsin and northeastern Minnesota. By the time Michigan achieved statehood in 1837, the U.P. was incorporated into the state, creating a geographic and economic divide between the two peninsulas.
The first formal effort to split the U.P. from Michigan took place in 1858, with a convention in Ontonagon, Michigan, to establish a new state. Although unsuccessful, this convention began a long legacy of efforts to create a state either called “Superior” or “Ontonagon.”
Persistent Advocacy Through the 19th and 20th Centuries
Throughout the years, U.P. residents pushed for independence, citing economic and cultural differences. For instance, in 1897, a proposal to create a new state in the region resurfaced, adding portions of Wisconsin to the desired territory. These efforts only strengthened in the 20th century, particularly following Alaska and Hawaii’s addition as the 49th and 50th states.
One of the most vocal advocates was Ted Albert, a resident of Ironwood, Michigan, who called for a “divorce” from the Lower Peninsula in 1959. In 1962, a group called the Upper Peninsula Independence Association took shape. They gathered 20,000 petition signatures for a referendum on separation. Although the effort fell short of the required 56,000 signatures, it underscored the enduring desire for recognition.
The 1975 Secession Vote
Perhaps the closest that U.P. residents came to creating a new state occurred in 1975. Residents of Marquette and Iron Mountain, Michigan, were given a chance to vote on a proposal to establish the 51st state. While the idea sparked widespread discussion, voters rejected the measure by significant margins in both cities.
A Viable State?
If the state of Superior were to be formed, it would likely have the smallest population of any state in the country. The U.P., home to about 300,000 residents. It accounts for roughly 3% of Michigan’s total population despite making up nearly one-third of its landmass. Superior’s largest city, Marquette, has a population of just over 21,000. It is notably smaller than the smallest state capital by population, Burlington, Vermont, with about 44,000 residents.
The U.P.’s geographic size, however, is substantial, covering about 16,500 square miles. That is larger than nine U.S. states, including New Hampshire and New Jersey. This sparsely populated region has developed a unique cultural identity, as Yoopers. The term is derived from “U.P.-ers”, that differentiates it from the rest of Michigan. Many Yoopers have long believed that the U.P. and its distinct economy, once rooted in mining and forestry, have been neglected in favor of southern Michigan’s agricultural and industrial focus.
The Mackinac Bridge and Increased Connectivity
A pivotal moment in U.P. history came in 1957 with the completion of the Mackinac Bridge. Finally the U.P. to the Lower Peninsula were connected by land. Although the bridge boosted tourism and economic connection, challenges remain. Residents still voice concerns that their region’s priorities are too often sidelined by downstate lawmakers. This belief is fueled by the financial support the U.P. receives from the state’s tax base, which would be challenging to sustain independently.
Could Superior Ever Be a Reality?
While the idea of an independent U.P. state has yet to gain the traction it would need for formal consideration, it remains an intriguing historical and cultural topic. For Yoopers, it’s about representation, identity, and a sense of autonomy, even if creating a state of Superior remains a distant dream.
Learn more about the rich history of the Eastern Upper Peninsula.
Learn more about the rich history of the Central Upper Peninsula.
Learn more about the rich history of the Western Upper Peninsula.
