Here’s The Story Behind The Massive Big John Statue In Mississippi
By Daniella DiRienzo|Published January 31, 2022
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Daniella DiRienzo
Author
Though Daniella was born in New York and has lived in a couple of other states, Mississippi has been her home for more than 30 years. After graduating from the University of Southern Mississippi, Daniella began to hone her writing skills through various internships. In the years since, she’s had the privilege of having her articles appear in several publications, such as the Mississippi-based Parents & Kids Magazine. She’s also had the honor of interviewing actress Sela Ward for The Mississippi Arts and Entertainment Experience.
State Line Big John is the quintessential roadside attraction. It’s easily accessible and as quirky as can be. And though dozens of drivers encounter the towering statue every day, not many know the story behind it…until now.
As you might have guessed from the name, State Line Big John stands at the Tennessee-Mississippi border, along Highway 61 in Walls, Mississippi.
The stores, and ultimately the statues, are named after the Jimmy Dean song, Big Bad John. Big John supermarkets – and their gargantuan grocer mascots – can still be found today. The statues are not very common, though. According to Roadside America, of the 30 or so initially produced, only eight are publicly accessible.
Oftentimes, Big John statues are confused with the Muffler Man, and it’s not hard to see why. The two look pretty similar.
Well, what do you think? Are you ready to pay a visit to State Line Big John? Click here for a map to the towering statue.
So, did you know about the State Line Big John Statue in Mississippi? Ever seen it in person? If so, what’d you think? Was it as large as you expected? Tell us!
This isn’t the only quirky roadside stop in the state. Click here for a route to the most unique roadside attractions in the Magnolia State.
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