A 29-ton sample of iron ore, a gift from the city of Ishpeming, Mich., was placed outside the north entrance of the Natural Science Building, which houses the geological sciences department.
The gift was dedicated on May 3.
The specimen was presented to MSU to recognize the integral role of Earth science in Michigan and to honor the many MSU graduates who have worked in the mining industry.
“The city council was thrilled to be able to provide this specimen of iron ore to MSU,” said Mark Slown, Ishpeming city manager. “We believe that it will be a very nice aesthetic and intellectual complement to the university due to the heritage and information, geological and otherwise, that is related to this specimen.”
The mining of iron ore from Michigan’s Upper Peninsula has been a major component of the state’s cultural and industrial development.
“We are very flattered and pleased to be the beneficiary of such an outstanding piece of Michigan geologic history,” said David Hyndman, geological sciences department chair. “The physical presence of this outstanding specimen will serve as a touchstone and ongoing reminder of the field’s cultural, historic and scientific value, and will serve as a wonderful tribute to geological sciences at MSU.”