Akeley, Minnesota - Birthplace of Paul Bunyan
Akeley, Minnesota
In the late 1800s, Akeley became the site of the Red River Lumber Company’s sawmill, transforming the lakeside forest into a boom town.
The first log was sawed at the mill in 1898 and by the early 1900’s, the mill ran ’round the clock. This was the largest sawmill in the state.
Welcome to Akeley, the biggest small town in Minnesota. With a population of 411, located in the heart of the North Woods, it is home to both Paul Bunyan and the headwaters of the Crow Wing Chain of lakes, the 11th Crow Wing. A rich history of logging combines with modern love of the outdoors to offer a complete "Up North" experience to visitors.
