4 Facts About the Paul Bunyan Statue in Bangor, Maine

The city of Bangor claims it's the birthplace of Paul Bunyan, who according to folktales, could clear a whole forest with one swing of his axe.

Bangor, which was once a prominent logging town, pays tribute to the fictional lumberjack with a massive statue along Main Street in front of Cross Insurance Center.

If you've been to Bangor, you may have seen it. But how much do you know about it?

Here are four quick facts about Bangor's iconic landmark.

How Tall Is the Paul Bunyan Statue in Bangor, Maine?

The statue is 31 feet high and weighs 3,700 pounds.

According to Roadside America, the statue's "fiberglass-over-metal frame is hurricane-proofed to withstand 110 mph winds."

When Did the Paul Bunyan Statue Go Up in Bangor, Maine?

It was unveiled on February 12, 1959, as part of Bangor's 125th anniversary celebration.

The date also marked Bunyan's 125th birthday.

Townsquare Media

According to a birth certificate on display in Bangor City Hall, Bunyan was born on February 12, 1834. Bangor was incorporated as a town that same year.

Who Designed the Paul Bunyan Statue in Bangor, Maine?

NewEngland.com writes that the statue was designed by Bangor artist J. Normand Martin, who worked for a small advertising agency in the city.

Martin crafted a 22-inch mock-up out of wire and clay and was paid $137 for his efforts, according to the website.

Who Built the Paul Bunyan Statue in Bangor, Maine?

A quasquicentennial committee raised approximately $20,000 to pay for the project.

It was then built by New York parade float fabricators Messmoor and Damon.

Bangor isn't the only city claiming to be the birthplace of Paul Bunyan.

Cities in Minnesota, Wisconsin, Michigan, and even the Canadian province of Nova Scotia make the same claim.

However, it doesn't really matter if we know the true birthplace of the giant lumberjack, because it's a folktale, and uncertainty comes with the territory.