About the IRON Foundation
The IRON Foundation was founded by Ian Murphy, owner of the iconic Iron Pig Smokehouse in Gaylord, Michigan, and a proven leader in the battle for constitutional rights and local self-determination.
Our name is our mission: Independently Revitalizing and Organizing our Nation.
We exist to raise funds and awareness so communities across Michigan — and eventually the entire country — can fight back against state-forced industrial solar plant developments that threaten farmland, property values, wildlife, and the rural way of life. We support legal challenges, community organizing, public education, and grassroots advocacy so everyday Americans can reclaim their voice.
Our Story: From Smokehouse to Solar Showdown
Our Story
Ian Murphy built the Iron Pig Smokehouse from the ground up with a second mortgage and 22 years of restaurant experience. When Michigan’s COVID-19 orders threatened to destroy his business and the livelihoods of his team, Ian refused to close. He kept the doors open, served his community, and took the fight to court — winning landmark rulings that struck down unconstitutional emergency powers and voided fines against him.
Now the same iron will is turned toward a new threat: utility-scale solar projects enabled by Michigan’s Public Act 233. These massive developments (like the 1,200-acre 45th Parallel Solar project in Otsego County and the Northern Waters Solar Park in Cheboygan County) are being pushed onto private farmland against the wishes of local residents.
Ian is a named plaintiff in the Otsego County lawsuit and a vocal strategist helping Cheboygan County families. His message is clear: Local control matters. Property rights matter. Rural Michigan is not for sale.
The IRON Foundation turns that fight into a nationwide movement — funding the next Ian Murphy in every county facing the same battle.
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Why We Fight Solar Overreach
Large-scale industrial solar plants pave over prime farmland, clear forests, risk environmental impacts, and bypass local zoning under state mandates. We are not against solar power — we are against forced, top-down projects that ignore the people who actually live here.
Our work includes:
- Funding lawsuits that delay or stop non-compliant solar developments (using every legal tool available under PA 233 and beyond).
- Providing toolkits, legal templates, and strategy sessions for other communities.
- Amplifying the voices of farmers, homeowners, and small-town leaders.
- Educating the public on the real costs of rushed renewable mandates.
Current Campaigns
Otsego County – 45th Parallel Solar (RWE)
Active lawsuit in circuit court protecting Hayes Township residents from a 1,200-acre industrial solar installation.
Cheboygan County – Northern Waters Solar Park (EDP Renewables)
Supporting Grant Township families in their fight against an 800+ acre fenced solar facility threatening local waterways and quality of life.
Statewide Expansion
Launching a replicable model so any community facing similar projects can organize, raise funds, and win in court.
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Get Involved
Your donation directly funds legal battles, community meetings, and awareness campaigns.
Every dollar keeps the fight alive — just like the Iron Pig kept its grills smoking through the toughest times.
- Donate (one-time or monthly)
- Volunteer your time or skills
- Share the story on social media
- Host a local fundraiser or screening
Contact: [confirm email] Follow us on X @ironpigsmoke (and upcoming foundation channels)
"Risk it for the Brisket… and for the Republic."
— The spirit that built the Iron Pig now builds a stronger nation.
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Contact Us
Drop us a line!
Better yet, see us in person!
We love our customers, so feel free to visit during normal business hours.
The IRON Foundation
Hours
| Mon | 09:00 am – 05:00 pm |
| Tue | 09:00 am – 05:00 pm |
| Wed | 09:00 am – 05:00 pm |
| Thu | 09:00 am – 05:00 pm |
| Fri | 09:00 am – 05:00 pm |
| Sat | Closed |
| Sun | Closed |
Stay in Touch
Learn more about our upcoming events, fundraisers, and more!
Recent Patriots
Thank you to the neighbors standing with rural Michigan. Names appear only with approval; gift amounts are never shown.
No recent patriots to show yet. Be the first — your gift keeps rural Michigan in the fight.