Bob Cary

Bob Cary — "Jackpine Bob" — was an author, artist, journalist, and wilderness guide who made Ely, Minnesota his home in 1966. A World War II Marine veteran, he founded Canadian Border Outfitters, edited the Ely Echo newspaper, and authored numerous books including "Root Beer Lady" and "Tales from Jackpine Bob." Deeply connected to Ojibwe culture, Cary attended Ojibwe language school and established a scholarship fund for Native American students. His murals, illustrations, and campfire stories made him one of Ely's most beloved figures until his passing in 2006.