Brooklyn, Michigan: Muffler Man - Paul Bunyan

Formerly at Stagecoach Stop USA, in Michigan's Irish Hills, which closed in 2008. HIs double-sided ax is now brandished to encourage sporting goods shoppers.

Muffler Man - Paul Bunyan

In the middle of nowhere, but a really cool find. The Muffler Man is huge!

[Anthony B, 04/06/2013]

Paul Bunyan - New Home

Paul Bunyan has moved from the Stage Coach Stop USA to Knutson's Sporting Goods in Brooklyn. He has a brand new paint job and looks beautiful! Near the Brooklyn Big Boy.

[Knutson's Sporting Goods, 11/21/2011]

Muffler Man - Bunyan - For Sale

Tipster Greg let us know that the Irish Hills Paul Bunyan, holding a large double-sided ax, was up on eBay for sale. The auction closed today without a bid (minimum was $6,500). Watch for this one to be offered again.

[RoadsideAmerica.com Team, 12/25/2010]

Muffler Man - Paul Bunyan

Freshly painted Bunyan Statue at "Stagecoach Stop USA" in the Irish Hills on US12.

[Mark Comstock, 02/18/2007]

Muffler Man - Paul Bunyan

The Paul Bunyan muffler man now stands in front of the parking lot for the Stagecoach Stop USA, where he is plainly visible from the road. He seems to have a fresh coat of paint and is in very good condition. I must confess, however, I've never seen a curved handle on a double-bit axe!

As for Stagecoach Stop USA itself, it's a perfect roadside attraction - campy yet fun at a reasonable price. The kids will enjoy the "train ride" (actually a farm tractor made to look like a train, pulling several open wagons) during which the engineer gets into a mock gunfight with a bandit. Adults may be more interested in the numerous antiques scattered throughout the various buildings. I was especially impressed by the surprising number of antique hand and power tools, single-cylinder gasoline engines, and live demonstration of an 1900's vintage saw mill.

There's also a recreated 1950's gas station, with an old Chevy police cruiser parked outside that has bullet holes in the trunk!

[Eugene H. Beach, Jr., 08/12/2006]