Farmington, New Mexico: Muffler Man - Sunny the Big Man

The "Big Man" has been a Farmington landmark since the early 1960s, previously residing at Western Tire. In the spring of 2005, Western Tire closed their doors and the "Big Man" was purchased by Sun Glass. In a contest, the community was asked to give the "Big Man" a name. After many ideas, the winning name chosen was "Sunny the Big Man."

Sunny the Big Man's costumes currently consist of his Sun Glass uniform, a black tuxedo with tails and top hat, Connie Mack baseball uniform, western cowboy hat, and a Santa Claus suit. The community enjoys seeing his costumes change to meet the season and special occasions.

Sunny stands 22 feet tall and is a popular photo opportunity for those visiting the Farmington and Four Corners area. All parades in Farmington pass "Sunny the Big Man" and a local radio station now broadcasts parades from his location, increasing civic pride at 602 West Main.

I was visiting Farmington the week of August 3-7 and was lucky enough to see a change of clothing on the Muffler Man during the week. He was dressed as a cowboy and baseball player.

Just thought you'd be interested to know that Farmington NM's big man, now known as "Sunny the Big Man," has a brand new light blue work shirt with Sun Glass's logo on it. I guess that officially welcomes him to the team!

Farmington's 22-ft. tall Muffler Man was bought by Sun Glass, a store that beat out several other local companies who had bid for it. The statue will be moved onto the roof of the Sun Glass building on West Main St. The purchase also included the "Big Man's" five costume changes -- Santa suit, baseball player, cowboy duds, formal tuxedo, and a hula skirt. The statue has been in Farmington since the mid-1960s. [Thanks to Paul Trap for the tip]

Muffler Man is for sale, but will stay in the area. There are at least ten businesses that have expressed interest, and the owners are anxious to keep it in this area.