Covington, Michigan: A Charming Finnish-Inspired Community

Nestled in the heart of Michigan's Upper Peninsula, the unincorporated community of Covington is a hidden gem that offers a unique blend of Finnish heritage and natural beauty. This census-designated place (CDP) in Baraga County boasts a rich history and a tight-knit community that celebrates its cultural roots.

Covington was first settled by French-Canadians around 1885 and was named after the postmaster's hometown of Covington, Kentucky. As the logging industry flourished, the community attracted a growing number of Finnish settlers who arrived in 1898. These new residents transformed the landscape, planting fields of potatoes, corn, and wheat, and establishing dairy farms. Today, the lumber industry remains a significant source of income for Covington's residents, though the community has also embraced its agricultural heritage.

One of Covington's most notable landmarks is the Bethany Evangelical Lutheran Church, a stunning structure that blends Art Deco and Finnish design elements. Visitors can marvel at the church's intricate wood paneling, hand-carved images, and the impressive altar painting donated by the Chicago Art Institute in 1931. The church is a testament to the community's enduring Finnish influence and serves as a popular tourist attraction.

Covington's cultural heritage is celebrated annually through the Finnish Music Festival, a lively event that features Finnish-inspired music, traditional cuisine, and a vibrant community spirit. Residents and visitors alike can enjoy the festival's lineup of talented musicians, as well as the community's other offerings, such as the UP Made Artist Market, which showcases the work of local artisans.

When it comes to internet services, Covington residents have access to a variety of options. Baraga Telephone offers DSL internet with download speeds up to 8 Mbps and upload speeds up to 0.9 Mbps. HughesNet and Viasat also provide satellite internet services, with maximum download speeds of 25 Mbps and 100 Mbps, respectively. For those seeking more robust internet connectivity, Northern Michigan University's Educational Access Network offers a terrestrial fixed wireless solution with download speeds up to 25 Mbps and upload speeds up to 5 Mbps.

Whether you're drawn to Covington's rich history, its vibrant cultural events, or its natural surroundings, this charming community in Michigan's Upper Peninsula is sure to leave a lasting impression. With a variety of internet options available, residents and visitors can stay connected while immersing themselves in the unique Finnish-inspired atmosphere that defines Covington.