Lumberman’s Monument: A Must-See Stop! - AuSable River
The Lumberman’s Monument is dedicated to the workers of the early logging industry in Michigan. It was built in 1931 and is located in the Huron-Manistee National Forest that was heavily logged in the second half of the 19th century. It stands 14 feet high on a bluff overlooking the scenic AuSable River.
A must-see stop for visitors, the Lumberman’s Monument Visitor Center interprets the area’s colorful lumbering past. Learn about the men who cut the timber that helped build a nation. Climb through a logjam, use a peavey and learn about the life of a lumberjack through video and displays. If you are willing to hike 272 steps to the edge of the AuSable, you can board the Wanigan, a replica of the floating cook shacks that followed the river drives.
Oscoda is proud of its logging history. The white pine that made up much of the forest was in high demand nationwide for housing, ships, and other manufacturing. This pride is evident by the local fondness for the Paul Bunyan tale. In 2006, the Michigan legislature declared Oscoda “the official home” of the legendary logger.
The visitor center is open daily from May 10 to October 16 from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm. Parking is available and there is no entrance fee.
Explore Oscoda’s rich logging history and book your stay at the Huron House Bed & Breakfast.
