Remote, rustic, wild and beautiful, the Northwoods of Minnesota have long provided a secluded retreat from the hurried pace of everyday life. Initially, European settlers moved into the area in the early 1800′s, in search of plentiful land and natural resources. Gradually, Minnesota emerged as a mainstay for the logging and paper industries. While these businesses played a central role in the economic development of the state, northern Minnesota became increasingly known as a haven for residents of populated Midwestern cities in the early 1900′s. Folks from Des Moines, Chicago, Madison and Minneapolis/St. Paul fled hot, crowded cities in the summer months, seeking a relaxing vacation away from the pressures of work. To this day, the pristine pine forests beckon visitors from far and wide to come and relax; to truly immerse themselves in the beauty of this untouched wilderness.
In the Northwoods of Minnesota, there are countless recreational opportunities; fishing, hunting, boating, hiking and skiing to name a few. While the Northwoods of Minnesota are a haven for travelers seeking the simpler pleasures of nature and a more relaxed pace of life, interested visitors should carve some time out in their schedules to explore the unique history of this region which emerged from the days of the early settlers and lumberjacks. The spirit of the hardy lumberjacks of yesteryear continues to have a deep influence on the culture and people here in northern Minnesota.
Paul Bunyan may be the most famous of all lumberjacks. Ask folks in Minnesota about Paul Bunyan and you are likely to encounter many different accounts of his legend and existence. Some folks say that Paul Bunyan was an actual lumberjack in the late 1800′s or early 1900′s. Others claim he was the byproduct of “tall-tales” of lumberjacks passed down from generation to generation. Still others believe he was an image created by an advertising campaign in the early 1900′s. Regardless of his true origins, the legend holds that Paul Bunyan was an enormous lumberjack who travelled the woods with his larger than life Blue Ox, Babe. Numerous towns and cities claim that Paul Bunyan hailed from their community, including Bemidji, Minnesota and Brainerd, Minnesota. In Brainerd, lumberjack enthusiasts can view the large statue of Paul Bunyan and Babe; a statute which was featured in the movie, Fargo. Two hours north of Brainerd, the city of Kelliher claims it is home to the gravesite of Paul Bunyan. Here, visitors can explore the Paul Bunyan Memorial Park, site of the purported grave.
Although not exclusively a historical experience, the Old Farm Pioneer Village & Paul Bunyan Land located several miles east of Brainerd, Minnesota features numerous rides and other interactive amusements celebrating the legend of the lumberjack, Paul Bunyan. This one of a kind attraction boasts a large talking statue of Paul Bunyan with an accompanying figure of his Blue Ox, Babe. The Old Farm Pioneer Village is comprised of a Log House, a Doctor’s Office, a Grainery and a Depot Store. Interestingly, the Depot Store may seem familiar to many visitors, as it appeared in the classic Disney movie, Iron Will. Visitors strolling through the pioneer village can absorb the ambiance of a recreated pioneer community here in the Minnesota Northwoods. While rides only operate in the summer season, the Old Farm Pioneer Village & Paul Bunyan Land hosts numerous special holiday events throughout the year including a celebration of Paul Bunyan’s birthday and a special Christmas time extravaganza.
Running approximately 120 miles from Crow Wing State Park north to Lake Bemidji State Park, The Paul Bunyan State Trail is another unique way to explore the land which once contributed so much to the success of the lumber industry. Many of the towns and communities along the Paul Bunyan State Trail were once pivotal in the development of Minnesota logging, offering a brief glimpse into this past. Furthermore, hikers, bikers, ATV riders and skiers have the opportunity to witness the re-grown pine forests; restoring the land to how it must have looked back in the day of the lumberjacks.
Visitors can learn more about the history of the lumber industry and the legacy of lumberjacks at the Crow Wing County Historical Society, located in downtown Brainerd, Minnesota. The museum itself is located in buildings which used to serve as the sheriff’s house and the county jail. The museum houses numerous artifacts and exhibits, tracing the history of the American Indians and early pioneers who once inhabited this region. Here, visitors can peruse exhibits related to the railroad, mining and lumber industry and learn about the impact these industries had on this unique region.
While northern Minnesota is a celebrated vacation spot with crystal, clear lakes and old world pine forests as far as the eye can see, it is also home to a rich cultural history created by the folklore of the lumberjack. If you have the opportunity to visit this unique, beautiful countryside, be sure to take a few moments to absorb some of the rich history and lore of the lumberjack here in northern Minnesota!
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