THE BIG ANNIE
STATUE PROJECT
Team Big Annie is raising funds to support the creation of a "Big Annie" Clemenc statue in Calumet, Michigan to commemorate and honor the legacy of this historic woman. Your donation can help ensure future generations learn about the impact and legacy of this heroine of the 1913 Copper Strike.
.png){kind=logo}
BIG ANNIE'S STORY
The Copper Country strike of 1913 became one of the most significant and heartbreaking episodes of labor unrest in American history. The strike, led by nearly 10,000 copper miners, lasted for nine grueling months. It drew national attention not only for its scale but also for the tragedy of the Italian Hall disaster. Among the voices that rose to fight for justice during this difficult time was Anna Klobuchar Clemenc, a woman whose courage and compassion made her a legendary figure.
Affectionately known as “Big Annie,” she stood out for her tireless advocacy for workers’ rights. Her towering 6’2” frame made her impossible to miss, but it was her big heart and fierce determination while leading strike marches that earned her admiration.
Annie’s legacy has continued to inspire generations. She was the first woman inducted into the Michigan Women’s Hall of Fame in 1996 and was also honored by the International Federation of Labor Unions in 2013.​​
Annie is one of three women featured on the Michigan Hall of Famer Medallion, along with Sojourner Truth and Anna Howard Shaw.
ABOUT THE STATUE AND SCULPTOR
The life-size Big Annie bronze statue will stand as an eternal symbol of strength, courage, and craftsmanship capturing the essence of movement, emotion, and history. Each detail meticulously designed by sculptor Andy Sacksteder and cast in bronze to show Big Annie as she led copper strikers during the 1913 strike.
OUR DONORS
Our donor contributions provide the funds for statue materials, skilled craftsmanship, and construction, ensuring that the Big Annie statue stands as a tribute to our local history and culture. Beyond financial support, the donors demonstrate a shared commitment to preserving our heritage and inspiring future generations. Without their generosity, the Big Annie statue would remain a mere idea, never taking physical form. Team Annie thanks the many individuals, businesses, and organizations who have made donations to our project!
STORYTELLER'S CORNER
These authors and experts play a crucial role in preserving and sharing the rich history of our community, bringing figures like Big Annie to life through their research and storytelling.
Steve Lehto - Author of Death's Door
Lyndon Comstock - Author of Annie Clemenc & the Great Keweenaw Copper Strike
Mary Doria Russell - Author of Women of the Copper Country
Bill Rose - Historian
Get in Touch
Vada Riederich, Chairperson
Anita Campbell, Secretary