Chester, Illinois: Statue of Popeye

Statues of Popeye and his comic cohorts populate a town, honoring the local artist who modeled his cartoon characters on Chester residents.

For an 80-year-old cartoon character, Popeye has some sea legs. At least three towns promote his immortality with statues, but Chester, Illinois, clearly has wind in its sails.

The Welcome Center has a heated facility that is open even when nobody is manning the other half of the building. Take your 51 cents because there's also a penny press inside. Popeye is the only bronze statue in the collection. It was sunny and mid-day when we visited, making it difficult to get a good photo. Best photo opportunity would be a cloudy day. A great spot overlooking the Mississippi River, too!

There are now 17 statues around town. A map is at the Chester Visitor Center next to Popeye. Restrooms in building as well and a nice view of the Mississippi River and bridge.

Great view of the river from the welcome center. They will provide a map where the other statues can be founds.