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McKinleyville, California: World's Largest Totem Pole

Carved in 1962 by Ernest Pierson. At the time it was 160 feet tall: the world's largest. On May 25, 2023, the rotted top of the pole had to be amputated with a chainsaw; now it's estimated to be 125 feet tall. It still claims to be the world's largest.

Address:
Central Ave., McKinleyville, CA
Directions:
At the corner of Pickett and Gwinn Rds, at the back of the Safeway.
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Visitor Tips and News About World's Largest Totem Pole

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World's Largest Totem Pole

They are currently painting the pole. The area around it is taped off.

[Vera, 11/20/2023]

Largest Totem Pole.

World's Largest Totem Pole

Claims to to the world's largest totem pole, 160 ft tall. In parking lot near Safeway.

[Jim Matthews, 04/02/2008]

World's Tallest Totem Pole.

World's Tallest Totem Pole

Here's a picture of the World's Tallest Totem Pole. I heard it wasn't officially the tallest until they placed the antennae on top.

[Joe Tamony, 02/18/2007]
World's Largest Totem Pole

Near down McKinleyville, behind the Safeway in the McKinleyville Shopping Center, is what could be the world's tallest totem pole from a single tree. The 160-foot-high pole was carved by the late Ernest Pierson and his friend John Nelson, to commemorate the grand opening of the McKinleyville Shopping Center in 1962.

[Ted Rowfast, 09/11/2006]

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In the region:
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