Gay, is a tiny unincorporated community in Keweenaw County in the U.S. state of Michigan. It is 12 miles from Lake Linden on Copper Island at the western end of the Upper Peninsula. Local government is provided by Sherman Township. As of 2000, its population is 60.  Gay was named for Joseph E. Gay, one of the founders of the Mohawk and Wolverine Mining Companies. The Mohawk Mining Company built its stamp mill here in 1898. The residual stamp sand dumped into Lake Superior increased the town's area greatly. Today, only the large smokestack and the ruins from the stamp mill still remain. The 265' Gay smokestack serves as a landmark for boaters.  It  is also the site of the largest stamp sand beach in the area.  Stamp sand is crushed basalt leftover after the copper was removed. It is the consistency of unground black pepper, maroon in color, and barely supports a vehicle. Nothing grows on stamp sand, giving it a desolate, barren feel.  The only remaining business is a bar, which is called The Gay Bar, although it is not a gay bar; it is named after the town Gay.

Michigan Bed & Breakfast Guide, 3980 Curtisville Road, South Branch, Michigan 48761, Phone: (989) 785-0600

Northern Michigan Cabin & Cottage Rentals, 3980 Curtisville Road, South Branch, Michigan 48761, Phone: (989) 785-0600