Travels with the Hinged Man
The 6-ft. Tall Hinged ManTM was our constant companion on early Roadside America research trips. We created this precisely calibrated device to measure claims of largeness by roadside statues, photo opportunities, and other attractions. But over the course of thousands of travel miles together, he became something more than just a cardboard figure folded in the back seat.
The Hinged Man was damaged over a series of trips, and had to be destroyed in the early 1990s. For years after, we'd find ourselves unconsciously posing at the base of statues with his signature splay-footed stance and dim smile.
Here are a few views of the Hinged Man hard at work.
![]() At the base of the mighty Archer, Great Statues of Auburn, Auburn, CA. |
![]() Decrepit handle of a World's Largest Frying Pan contender, Rose Hill, NC. |
![]() Johnny Appleseed, New Market, VA. |
![]() At the Space Hall of Fame, Alamogordo, NM. The G forces a hinged-man can endure on this rocket sled would flatten any three dimensional being. |
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![]() Rabbit photographer at the IQ Zoo, Hot Springs, AR. |
![]() With Rocky the Rock City Elf, Lookout Mtn, GA |