Yarmouth, Massachusetts: Waving Tan Man (Gone)

The Amazing Waving Tan Man -- Arthur J. Garceau -- was not just a friend, but a member of my extended family. His daughter and my mother have been best friends for over 30 years! Arthur was a wonderful husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. Even when we would go down the Cape for a quick dinner, we would always stop by and see the "Tan Man" for a quick hello. You could always count on him being there! He is greatly missed by all his family and friends. The house will never be the same without him there, but his memory will live on forever!

For over 20 years, Arthur J. Garceau, known locally as the Amazing Waving Tan Man, sat on his front lawn on Rt 6A in Yarmouthport and waved at each car that honked as it drove past. He built the home for his retirement after working 30 years at the General Motors plant in Framingham. As the tradition grew, people would honk whenever they passed his house, whether or not he was outside. The summer tourists especially took a great liking to the tradition. He retired to Florida in 2003 and the new home owners must wonder why everyone honks as they drive past. Mr. Garceau passed away in 2005.

Unfortunately, I believe he has passed away. Over the past three years, I have not seem him there anymore. The house is still there, and the garage with screen, but no man, no wave. The trip up Route 6A just isn't the same.

On route 6A in Yarmouthport there is an Amazing Tan Man. He sits on his perfect front lawn and waves to tourists all day, all summer long. He's even in one of the many Cape Cod guide books. He's been featured in magazines before. He's been out all summer long for at least 20 years (I'm guessing). We wave to him every time we go by.