When we are talking bout things that are man made, a lot of the time my focus is on the engineering skill sets and effort it took to design and create something. That is not the case today. Nope. Today is all about the artistic value of public art.
I am a big fan of public art…and yes I am being serious about this kind of goofy Americana legendary myth of a lumberjack and his statue being both art and of value.
The art question is simple. It is a physical symbol of an idea. Its art. End of discussion.
Its value to me is twofold (and probably more to others).
First, it is a reminder to those of us visiting Bangor, Maine that everything that is Bangor came from timber…and the men who worked the forests and mills. It isn’t often that we really honor working men and make heroes of them. The legend of Paul Bunyon does that. We should do it more.
Second. Unlike most public statues, this one has a bit of whimsy to it. It makes you smile when you drive by. We need more of that too.
At any rate I won’t drone on longer about my thoughts and feelings on the matter. Here is the history of this statue.
The Paul Bunyan Statue in Bangor, Maine, stands as a proud emblem of the city’s rich folklore and deep-rooted connection to the logging industry. This iconic statue, towering at 31 feet and weighing 3,700 pounds, captures the mythical lumberjack Paul Bunyan, who is celebrated in American and Canadian folklore for his extraordinary size and strength.
Origins and Creation: The concept for the statue was born in the 1950s as a tribute to Bangor’s history as the “Lumber Capital of the World.” During the 19th century, Bangor’s thriving timber industry contributed significantly to the local economy, and the legendary figure of Paul Bunyan, known for his superhuman logging feats, became an apt symbol of this heritage.
Commissioned as part of Bangor’s 125th-anniversary celebration in 1959, the statue was designed by renowned artist Normand Martin and constructed by the Creative Display Company. Martin meticulously crafted the statue to ensure it accurately reflected the larger-than-life character of Paul Bunyan. The sculpture’s detailed design includes a plaid shirt, suspenders, and a peavey—a traditional logging tool—in Bunyan’s right hand, along with an axe slung over his left shoulder.
Unveiling and Impact: The statue was unveiled on February 12, 1959, during Bangor’s winter festival, in a grand ceremony attended by city officials, residents, and visitors. The imposing figure quickly became a beloved landmark, symbolizing the city’s historical significance and its enduring spirit. Standing at the intersection of Main Street and Cedar Street, near the Bangor Auditorium and Civic Center, the statue has since welcomed countless visitors, becoming a focal point for community events and tourist photographs.
Cultural Significance: Over the decades, the Paul Bunyan Statue has become more than just a representation of Bangor’s logging past; it has evolved into a cultural icon. Its presence has inspired local legends and contributed to the region’s folklore. Residents often share tales of Paul Bunyan and his blue ox, Babe, passing down stories that blend history with myth.
In popular culture, the statue has made appearances in various media, including Stephen King’s works. The renowned author, a Bangor resident, has referenced the statue in his books, further embedding it into the city’s cultural fabric. This connection to King’s literary world has drawn fans from across the globe, adding another layer to the statue’s significance.
Maintenance and Preservation: Recognizing the statue’s importance, the city of Bangor has undertaken several preservation efforts to maintain its condition. Over the years, the statue has been repainted and repaired to withstand the harsh Maine weather, ensuring it remains a vibrant and enduring symbol for future generations.
Modern-Day Relevance: Today, the Paul Bunyan Statue continues to stand tall, its presence a testament to Bangor’s historical roots and its community’s resilience. It serves as a gathering point for festivals, parades, and celebrations, bringing together people of all ages. The statue not only honors the past but also inspires a sense of pride and identity among Bangor’s residents.
In conclusion, the Paul Bunyan Statue in Bangor, Maine, is a monumental tribute to the city’s logging heritage and a beloved cultural icon. Its history, from conception to present-day significance, reflects the enduring spirit of Bangor and its people, ensuring that the legend of Paul Bunyan lives on for generations to come.
