 June 28th is recognized as National Paul Bunyan Day, so it makes sense that several people gathered around Paul Bunyan Park to pay tribute. Paul Bunyan and Babe the Blue Oaks are considered the second most photographed icons in the nation. People were decked out in their plaid for an open house to celebrate Bemidji's favorite lumberjack, even here in the Lakeland studio. Although many cities claim to be the birthplace of Paul and Babe, the two figures represent a significant piece of history that can be found throughout the city of Bemidji. Businesses have really embraced the Paul and Babe statues. We have many members whose names are Paul Bunyan or have Paul Bunyan in their name. So for us, I think it's just, they're here. Why not celebrate them and put the focus on them every once in a while? Now the legend says that Paul and Babe cut down trees in Minnesota and Wisconsin and created the Great Lakes and the Mississippi River. According to Visit Bemidji, it took nearly 750 hours to construct the Paul Bunyan statue in 1937, along with Babe one year later. If you've enjoyed this segment of Lakeland news, please consider making a tax deductible contribution to Lakeland Public Television.