The Complete Story
The Lauterbach Giant has stood guard outside Lauterbach Tire & Auto Service on the 1926-30 alignment of Historic Route 66 since 1978. This 25-foot tall fiberglass titan is one of the original Muffler Men manufactured by International Fiberglass between 1963 and 1972, designed to catch the attention of passing motorists.
But the Lauterbach Giant's most dramatic moment came on the night of Sunday, March 12, 2006, when a tornado roared through Springfield. The exposed statue took a direct hit that literally decapitated him. 'We had damage to our building and did not realize until later that he had been literally decapitated,' explained Mark Lauterbach, co-owner of the tire shop. Rather than let their beloved giant fall, the Lauterbach family repaired him.
After his resurrection, the giant received an upgrade - trading his original tire for an American flag, making him even more patriotic. Today he stands proudly along the original Route 66 alignment, one of the most photographed Muffler Men on the Mother Road. Lauterbach Tire & Auto continues to operate at this location, serving Springfield drivers while their 25-foot spokesman greets Route 66 travelers from around the world.
Surprising Facts You Didn't Know
→ Located on the 1926-30 original alignment of Route 66 through Springfield
→ Survived a tornado in March 2006 that literally knocked his head off
→ Originally held a tire but was 'upgraded' to hold an American flag after repairs
→ One of the original Muffler Men manufactured between 1963-1972
→ Lauterbach Tire has operated at this location since 1978
Frequently Asked Questions
Visit Lauterbach Giant (Muffler Man)
✓ You Can Visit Today
Address: undefined, Springfield, IL 62704
What's There Now: Standing outside active Lauterbach Tire & Auto Service. Free to view 24/7. Working tire shop still in business.
GPS Coordinates: 39.7644446, -89.6799837
Photo Tip: Best photographed in early morning or late afternoon when the Illinois light brings out the building's character.
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