About the Big Jim
Big Jim: A Unique Roadside Attraction in Bentleyville, PA
Welcome to Bentleyville, Pennsylvania, home to one of the most unique roadside attractions in the United States: Big Jim. Located at 101 Gosai Dr, Bentleyville, PA 15314, this colossal metal gunslinger stands as a testament to the craftsmanship and imagination of James C. Krutz.
James C. Krutz, a welder from the tiny town of Speers, Pennsylvania, had a deep fascination with the Wild West. This passion led him to spend over a year creating a 20-foot-tall, 70,000-pound metal gunslinger named Big Jim, modeled after his own son, James Jr. The statue was erected outside Krutz's welding shop on September 19, 1978.
Though both Krutz and his son have since passed away, Big Jim continued to stand tall outside the welding shop for nearly three decades. Eventually, Krutz's granddaughters sold the long-closed business and listed the statue for sale on eBay. Despite interest from the mayor of nearby Charleroi, who envisioned Big Jim as a community tourist attraction, the town couldn't afford the liability insurance.
The statue found a new home with motel owner Kamlesh Gosai, who transported Big Jim eight miles west to stand proudly outside the Bentleyville Best Western. This relocation was fitting, as the motel chain originally had locations only west of the Mississippi River, making the gunslinger a symbolic addition. Big Jim was rededicated at his new location on June 9, 2007.
Standing as a tribute to Krutz's dedication, Big Jim faces west and is painted a rust-preventative orange. He holds a cocked six-shooter in his right hand and a Pennsylvania long rifle in his left. To give a sense of scale, Big Jim's belt buckle is actually a real horseshoe that once hung over the door to Krutz's welding shop. An eagle, originally part of an antique stove, adorns Big Jim's buckskin vest. Krutz had to purchase the entire stove just to obtain the eagle for his statue.
Despite the detailed work on Big Jim's fringed vest, Krutz often mentioned that the hardest part to sculpt were the gunslinger's fingers. The limitations of welded steel give Big Jim an angular, almost robotic appearance. He has a chiseled jaw and glass eyes that seem to bug out of his head. A plaque between the statue's legs spells out "Big Jim" in letters designed to mimic bullet holes.
Big Jim is a must-see for anyone traveling through Pennsylvania. This peculiar and impressive roadside attraction is perfect for those looking to explore strange and amusing destinations. Whether you're planning a dedicated road trip or just passing through, make sure to stop by and marvel at the craftsmanship and history behind this towering metal gunslinger.
For more information on Big Jim and other offbeat tourist attractions, visit RoadsideAmerica.com. They offer maps, directions, and details to help you plan your next adventure. Don't forget to check out their app for iPhone and iPad for on-route maps, thousands of photos, and special research targets. Happy travels!
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