National Paul Bunyan Day

Paul Bunyan in Tucson, AZ

Today is National Paul Bunyan Day.

All I could think of when I read that today is National Paul Bunyan Day is growing up in Tucson, Arizona and seeing the statue on the corner of Stone and Glenn. (2811 North Stone Ave.) I remember as a kid always being in awe of it for some crazy reason, and years down the road pointing him out to my children - even pulling into the parking lot for my kids to stand by him and touch him.

All my Tucson friends probably know that this statue has been used to navigate people since the 60s and has been seen in movies such as Easy Rider, Pocket Money, and Alice Doesn't Live Here Any More.

I heard that his axe was stolen but replaced, and that a new paint job was given to Mr. Bunyan with Coronado Heights Neighborhood." written across his chest.

Author:Deanie Burris
Paul Bunyan was purchased by Leo Toia (owner of Leo's Auto & Home Supply) in 1964.  Paul was delivered via flat bed trailer from California and stands tall at the corner of Stone Ave & Glenn St.  Leo purchased him so that he could tell customers how to find his business. His theory still works to this day.  Leo's grandaughter owns and operates Celebrations Party Spot and when pople ask her where they are located the first thing she asks is....Do you know where Paul Bunyan is?  98% of the time the answer is yes. Leo's family still own and maintain the statue.( Burris, Deanie. "Paul Bunyan.")

Happy Thursday!