After decades of rumors, tall tales, and speculation, an iconic piece of Paul Bunyan lore has finally surfaced—literally.
In the wake of the devastating storm that struck Bemidji in the early morning hours of June 21, powerful waves unearthed a massive object near one of Paul’s favorite winter fishing holes. By dawn, that object—a 100-pound smartphone belonging to Paul Bunyan himself—had washed up on shore, reigniting one of northern Minnesota’s most beloved legends.
Thanks to the quick action of locals, the colossal phone was safely recovered and brought to the Bemidji Tourist Information Center. With years of underwater wear, it needed some serious TLC. Locals did what anyone would: they placed it in the largest bowl of rice they could find, then rushed it to Paul Bunyan Communications for expert restoration.
Miraculously, the phone is fully operational again—though the lake sadly wiped Paul’s camera roll clean. Visitors are invited to snap a selfie with the massive device, leave Paul a message, and sign his digital guestbook. Help refill his camera roll and be part of this new chapter in the Bunyan legend—one legendary photo at a time.
“Paul’s giant smartphone adds a whole new twist to his legend and gives visitors a chance to be part of the story. We can’t wait to see the photos, messages, and smiles this larger-than-life addition brings to our community and all those visiting the area.” said Josh Peterson, Executive Director of Visit Bemidji.
“It’s only fitting that our namesake’s smartphone would be repaired by our cooperative. Not only are we Paul Bunyan Communications, but we are also northern Minnesota Certified Apple Service Center. We were thrilled to help restore Paul’s phone and bring it back to life for everyone to enjoy,” said Brian Bissonette, Paul Bunyan Communications Marketing Supervisor.
Now, thanks to a partnership between Visit Bemidji and Paul Bunyan Communications, Paul’s giant smartphone is proudly on display at the Bemidji Tourist Information Center for all to enjoy. A special thanks to Meyer’s Signs and Graphics as well, they had the tough task of building a new phone case for Paul’s super-sized smartphone.