Questioning the Locals | Babe the Blue Ox

Babe is one the Chippewa Valley’s most mythological residents

Eric Rasmussen, photos by Andrea Paulseth |

WHO: Babe the Blue Ox, 156
WHAT: Timber hauler/tourist attraction
LIVES: Carson Park’s Paul Bunyan Logging Camp Museum
IN THE CITY: Since 1983

Babe the Blue Ox is one the Chippewa Valley’s most mythological residents. As a holdover from the city’s logging days, he is a great reminder of all the sawdust and sweaty, burly, disheveled men on which this city was founded.

What are your favorite types of fiberglass vegetables? Fiberglass corn, of course. Fiberglass alfalfa is great, but that’s hard to come by. I also try to eat more organic sometimes – particle board carrots and stuff like that. 

Who is the most overrated tall tale figure? They’re all pretty legit. Pecos Bill can be a little full of himself, but that’s no big deal. I’d have to go with Melvin Mosquito-eggs, who brought mosquitoes to the frontier. He was kind of a tool. 

Who is your favorite famous steer? Red Bull is really popular right now, but I am all about the ladies from the California cheese commercials. The commercials are crap, but they have some fine udders!

At home, Saturday night, what are you doing? Chewing cud, charging at red things, the usual. 

Have you ever considered ditching Paul and hooking up with the Brawny guy? I never thought about it. … But I don’t think so. I don’t care how much flannel you wear, if you spend that much time in the kitchen, something’s not right. 

Do you feel your gigantic stature and exaggerated horn size affects the body images of local cows? Look, I’m all natural – no BGH, surgery, Botox, or anything. I understand I raise the bar pretty high, but I’m not ashamed of what storytelling in the oral tradition gave me.

What gets your goat? Other goats, usually.

A lot of places claim to be the home of Paul Bunyan and yourself – which city is your true place of residence? Eau Claire, no doubt about it, with all its logging history. Plus, Bemidji and Brainerd are like the armpits of northern Minnesota, and who’s ever heard of Bay City, Michigan? Wausau is nice, but Eau Claire is where it’s at.  

What place in town considers you a “regular”? While I love the YMCA, Starr’s Sister is probably the place that knows me best. I’m naturally more of a gray-blue, so I need to stop in every few weeks for the electric blue coloring.

What is one of the best cultural experiences you’ve ever had in the Chippewa Valley? I loved when the Stihl Timber Sports were in town. 

What is your favorite piece of local trivia? Putnam Park used to be part of the Chippewa River, which, of course, was created by Paul Bunyan dragging his giant axe. 

Death bed, one meal from a local restaurant, what would it be? New York Strip from Houligans! Just kidding! That would be weird! The Northwoods – Norske Nook Lefsa wraps, with veggies – they’re glorious! 

Water Street or Downtown? Both! You can get into Carson Park from either side. Although Menomonie St. now has the big sign ...

South side or North side? The west side! Grassy open space all the way. 

What’s your favorite Oakwood Mall store? RCC Western clothing store.

How strong are you? I’d say about as strong as an ox.