Photos of Big A, the Texaco Giant Muffler Man in Galena, Kansas
Know Before You Go
To make the most of your visit to Big A, the Texaco Giant Muffler Man in Galena, Kansas, here are some things to know before you go.
What is Big A fiberglass giant in Galena?
Big A is a giant fiberglass roadside figure inspired by the Waving Big Friends and rare Texaco “Big Friend” advertising statues that appeared at Texaco stations during the 1960s. Standing approximately 22 feet tall, Big A was unveiled in September 2024 and quickly became a popular landmark on Route 66.
Where is Big A located?
Big A stands outside Gearhead Curios at 520 S. Main Street in Galena, Kansas, along the historic Route 66 alignment through town. The statue is impossible to miss while driving through downtown Galena.
Why is he called “Big A”?
The statue was named after Gearhead Curios owner Aaron Perry. Artist Mark Cline customized the figure with facial features, sideburns, and a beard inspired by Perry, giving the giant a distinctive personality and earning him the nickname “Big A.”
Who created Big A?
Big A was created by renowned roadside attraction artist Mark Cline of Enchanted Castle Studios in Virginia. Cline is also known for creating other famous Route 66 giants, including Buck Atom in Tulsa, Oklahoma.
Is Big A an original Muffler Man?
No. Big A is a modern custom-built tribute to the original Texaco Big Friend figures based on a Waving Giant mold. While it is not an original muffler man, it is a custom hybrid that pays tribune to all of the fiberglass giants of the Mother Road.
Where can you park to see this roadside attraction?
Easy street parking is available around Galena, pull over and explore all of the best attractions on Route 66 in Galena, Kansas.
Where to Stay Near Big A, the Texaco Giant Muffler Man
Complete your travel itinerary and get a good night’s rest with a stay at one of these hotels near this Kansas Route 66 roadside attraction.
Boots Court Motel
The Boots Court Motel in Carthage, Missouri opened in 1939. This historic Route 66 motor hotel hosted actor Clark Gable numerous times.
Stay on 66
With only 13 miles of road, there aren’t too many motels on Kansas Route 66. Stay on 66 fills a need with boutique B&B experiences. With properties like the The Old Riverton Post B&B in Riverton and The Mollie Retreat on Route 66 in Galena, you have warm options if you want to spend the night in Kansas.
