As a northern state profoundly influenced by logging, Michigan has more Paul Bunyans than you can shake a 100′ tall white pine at! It’s been a long time since I drew on the amazing depth of the 300k+ photo Absolute Michigan group on Flickr for a post, but it feels like America’s tallest tale deserves special treatment! Did I miss something or get something wrong? Let me know in the comments! Also special shoutout to Kristina for her work documenting Michigan’s Paul Bunyans!

Oscoda Paul Bunyan
Oscoda, Michigan claims to be the official birthplace of Paul Bunyan because the Oscoda Press was first to publish James MacGillivray’s story “Round River Drive” was first published in 1906. To remind you of this, Oscoda celebrates Paul Bunyan Days every September – accept no imitation!!

Castle Rock Paul Bunyan
Babe, Paul, and the Kids by Joel Dinda (photo by Roger Dinda, 1953)

Paul Bunyan of West Branch
West Branch Paul Bunyan by Debra Jane Seltzer
Debra shares that Paul has been restored & has a new head. I will add that the head is terrifying 🙀
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Irish Hills Paul Bunyan
Paul Bunyan OF THE… by Jenny Murray
Was at Dinosaur Gardens in Irish Hills. Current whereabouts unknown!
Lots more Michigan Roadside Attractions on Michigan in Pictures!




