Helper, Utah: Big John: Coal Black Muffler Man
"Big John" is a towering coal miner entirely covered in glossy black paint. Custom-made by International Fiberglass in 1964. A unique Muffler Man.
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Visitor Tips and News About Big John: Coal Black Muffler Man
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Ever since I read about your collection of Muffler Man sightings in the October issue of the Smithsonian, I've wondered why you do not have a picture of the one in Helper, Utah, my father's home town.
Last weekend, while visiting my kids that attend BYU, made a trip to Helper to find "Big John". He was easy to find, thanks to your description of the location -- in front of the Civic Auditorium. I talked to a local lady, who confirmed that they call him "Big John". He is a proud symbol of the coal mining industry in the area. He is in remarkable condition.
The photo was taken the morning of November 3, 2000. The light would be better in the late afternoon.
[Duane Bryner, 11/09/2000]
Big John was installed in front of the civic auditorium in the mid-1960s. He held an axe for quite a number of years, and then one day it disappeared. Big John does represent the unifying of a community. It is good to know that not only the statue has a significance to the community, but the song of "Big John" goes along with community pride. He also signifies the memory of all those who have given their lives in the local coal mines since the late 1890s.
[Charles A. Colacito, Sr., 09/26/2000]A version of Muffler Man lives on Main Street in front of City Hall. Helper is a coal mining center and railroad town. Helper's man is all black and is made up as a coal miner with mining helmet and is carrying a large pick.
[John Brinley, 09/22/1997]John sent us a clipping from the newspaper in nearby Price with a close-up photo of "Big John." He is painted entirely in a high-gloss black, like shiny coal. His is the rarest of accomplishments -- a crossover from commercial brand guy to historical symbol of civic pride. The "massive work of art" stands in front of the Helper Civic Auditorium, according to the paper, and "symbolizes the personal sacrifices, unwavering commitment and strong work ethic that combined to provide Carbon County with a firm foundation and cement residents into a unified community."
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Big John: Coal Black Muffler Man
- Address:
- 19 S. Main St., Helper, UT
- Directions:
- On the east side of Hwy 244/S. Main St. just south of Janet St.
- RA Rates:
- Worth a Detour
Nearby Offbeat Places
Room of Mine Disasters, Helper, UT - < 1 mi.
Prehistoric Museum - Home of Al, Price, UT - 7 mi.
Museum of Creativity: Flying Saucer Folk Art, Clawson, UT - 41 mi.Latest Tips Across Roadside America
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Photo added June 2008.