Bemidji’s Paul Bunyan Requires Emergency Maintenance After Arm Nearly Dislocates

Bemidji’s Paul Bunyan statue is in a sling today after his arm was almost dislocated from his body after a crack formed around his sleeve. The first priority was to ensure Paul’s arm wouldn’t go anywhere.

Plans to do major conservation work on both Paul and Babe were already made for later this month, but today’s damage might speed up the process.

Maintenance has been a long time coming for both of the Bemidji statues, but for Mr. Bunyan himself especially. For the time being, the first priority is ensuring the safety of the duo and for any visitors to the icons.

For now, Paul’s arm has been secured with four straps, two crisscrossing his arm and torso, and two attaching his leg to a support beam that has been placed under his hand. Bemidji Parks and Recreation staff hopes to have the statue evaluated by professional conservation teams as soon as possible.