WHAT DEFINES NISSWA?
Ten years ago, Nisswa Elementary School students created a work of art which partially answers that question in an unlikely place—on a Babe the Blue Ox statue.
Situated on a corner of Main Street, the artwork showcases most anything a visitor, like me, would want to know about this northwoods Minnesota community.
From the story behind the town’s name to the availability of pizza and ice cream treats to the turtle races, these kids highlight the best of Nisswa on Paul Bunyan’s sidekick.
They appreciate their parks and bookstore, Pioneer Village, the Halloween parade and, yes, the local library, too.
Well done, former kids of Nisswa.
© Copyright 2017 Audrey Kletscher Helbling
Minnesota Prairie Roots 
Fun. Love these types of things just as much as you do. Thanks for sharing this fun one.
Yup, lots to love about these creative roadside attractions.
So many fond memories of that little settlement. DH’s dad lived on Upper Gull (a “stone’s throw” from town) and we would spend our summer weekends commuting from St. Paul to the cool refreshment of the lake setting. The boys still recall the hours spent fishing with Grandpa….and the many fish cleanings!!!!!!!
What wonderful memories.
That is a very unique Babe! Babe and Paul statues are quite abundant in Northern Minnesota. Big and small they seem to be part of what we think of when we think “Up North” It’s been longer than 10 years since I last stepped foot in Nisswa, maybe it’s time I do again.
I love how this region of Minnesota embraces the legend of Paul Bunyan and Babe the Blue Ox.
I enjoy seeing art like this. There are dolphins throughout town where I live. Happy Day – Enjoy 🙂
Dolphins seem fitting for your area.
That’s awesome!
I agree.
What a great tourist guide 😜
That it is.
I love Babe the Blue Ox! In Jacksonville, FL (where I lived the last 30 years), they have local artists paint large manatee sculptures (much like your photos above) and auction them off for charity. Often they are donated to local parks for display or businesses showcase them because the art work on them is quite exquisite. Babe is a wonderful historical find in this quaint town.
What a great idea, to auction manatee sculptures off for charity. I appreciate the kindness and the gift of public art.