Lumberman’s Monument honors those who developed Oscoda
Lumberman’s Monument photo courtesy of Shannone Bondie
Why are lumbermen so often discussed in Oscoda? The profession played an essential role in the development and growth of Iosco County, and left behind a lasting heritage.
Lumberman’s Monument can be reached by traveling 15 miles west along River Road from Oscoda. Upon arrival, you’ll find an historic marker that reads: “Erected to perpetuate the memory of the pioneer lumbermen of Michigan, through whose labors was made possible the development of the prairie states.”
The marker was erected in 1932, and is topped by a 14-foot bronze statue by Rober Ingersoll Aitken. The statute depicts a log surrounded by three figures with various roles in the lumbering industry.
Logging across the region relied on a nearby source of water. Sawyers cut down the trees, swampers trimmed them, and logs would be loaded onto sleds and taken to the nearest riverbank. The Au Sable handled the transportation from there, lugging the logs downstream to the sawmill. On the way, loggers often had to clear log jams.
Upon arrival, the logs would be cut into boards and used or shipped away for housing and development.
If the logs weren’t carted to the water, loggermen would take advantage of the natural landscape to roll them down. You can see such a hill at Foote Pond Overlook, also along River Road, for a full appreciation of the size and scope of the job.
After the logging industry slowed, the region was repopulated, and remains thick with gorgeous trees (especially beautiful to behold in the fall).
The Lumberman’s Monument Visitor Center, aside from a stunning scenic view, is a wonderful reason to visit. There, guests can learn about logging by climbing through a log jam, using a peavey, cutting a wooden cookie with a cross-cut saw, and learning through videos and displays, according to Pure Michigan. The center is open seasonally.
Nearby camping is available at the Monument Campground. The site has modern restrooms and includes a handicapped-accessible trail.