Take a look at the new American Giants museum in Atlanta, Illinois | MyStateline

ATLANTA, Ill. (WMBD) — Just off I-55 on what is known as old Route 66, a small museum has opened in Atlanta, Illinois.

If you’re a Peoria resident, you’re familiar with the 17-foot-tall woman known as “Vanna Whitewall.” Officially, she was known as “Miss Uniroyal” or “The Uniroyal Gal.” In Atlanta, Illinois, these larger-than-life statues now have a home at the American Giants Museum.

One of these giants once held a hot dog outside a Cicero restaurant. Another is a Texaco “Big Friend,” part of an ad campaign that lasted only two years. Another is the “Esso Tiger,” and another is called a “Snerd.”

Bill Thomas is with the American Giants Museum and believes that giant statues are perfect for attracting tourists.

“And the longer they stay in town, the more likely they are to visit our stores, restaurants and gas stations and spend money here,” Thomas said.

“This will make Atlanta the largest concentration of American giants on Route 66, from Chicago to Los Angeles.”

The giants are already attracting travelers. Two couples from France came by Harley to see the statues.

More statues are expected to be installed, just in time for the 100th anniversary of the “Mother Road.”