Courtesy photo This is a photo of the pump house and locomotive crane in 1934 at the old Rockport plant.

ALPENA — Tonight, from 6 p.m. until 7 p.m. at the Great Lakes Maritime Heritage Center, join historian Don La Barre as he examines the early to mid-20th century history of Rockport quarry and stone plant, focusing on its growth and technical development.

La Barre will explore how the quarry operated during its most active decades, including the methods used to extract and process stone, the machinery and technology that powered production, and the innovations that improved efficiency and output.

The presentation will also highlight how the plant adapted to changing industrial demands and economic conditions during this period. Through an overview of mining practices, changes in national trends, and operational milestones, the audience will gain insight into how Rockport Quarry functioned as a key industrial enterprise in its era.

Today, Rockport is a public recreation area that stretches along the Lake Huron and Thunder Bay National Marine Sanctuary coast and is managed by Michigan’s Department of Natural Resources. Its 4,237 acres offers hiking trails, sinkholes, mountain biking, and a boat launch to visitors. It is also a designated dark sky preserve.