Guardians of Route 66 — The Giants of Atlanta, Illinois

 

 Tucked along the historic stretch of Route 66 in Atlanta, Illinois, the American Giants Museum is a roadside treasure trove celebrating the towering legacy of fiberglass advertising figures known as Muffler Men. Among its most captivating residents are Snerd, the Carpet Viking, and the Phillips 66 cowboy—each with a story as outsized as their stature. Snerd, with his goofy grin and oversized bowtie, is a rare Mortimer Snerd-style figure that once beckoned travelers with his cartoonish charm. Nearby, the Carpet Viking stands stoic and shaggy, a relic of 1970s carpet store promotions, now repurposed as a symbol of kitschy Americana. And towering above them all is the Phillips 66 cowboy, a rugged sentinel in western garb who once stood watch over a gas station, now reimagined as a nostalgic nod to mid-century roadside culture.

These fiberglass giants aren’t just static displays—they’re cultural ambassadors of a bygone era when advertising was bold, bizarre, and larger than life. The museum itself offers a behind-the-scenes look at restoration efforts, historical context, and the artistry behind these colossal characters. For travelers and photographers alike, the trio of Snerd, Viking, and cowboy offers a whimsical photo op and a chance to connect with the playful spirit of Route 66. Whether you’re a history buff, a roadside attraction enthusiast, or just passing through, the American Giants Museum is a must-stop monument to the weird and wonderful.