Yes, Paul Bunyan was used by a lumber company in their advertising from about 1914 on. And yes, many of the Paul Bunyan stories were written by these advertising folks or by professional writers. Babe the blue ox was one invention of the advertisers.

But there was a Paul Bunyan tradition among American lumbermen before this. This was an oral tradition, the first time it appeared in print was in the July 24, 1910 issue of the "Detroit News" (A Detroit, Michigan, newspaper). This was before Paul Bunyan was used in advertising.

This old story is reprinted here:

http://www.mgilleland.com/roundriver1.htm

There is no mention of Babe, the blue ox. Also, I don't think it says Paul Bunyan was a giant. But Paul is genuine folklore, not fakelore.

(If you find the description of Michigan weather unbelievable, as an inhabitant of Michigan I can tell you that the story isn't much of an exagerration...)

KEVP

Hi Kevp

I think this message is probably aimed at Neil, but he doesn't read the message boards.

If you wish him to recieve it, you need to send it via here.

hope this helps