ATLANTA, Illinois (WMBD) — A small museum has opened in Atlanta, Illinois, just off I-55 on what is known as Old Route 66.

If you're from Peoria, you know the 17-foot tall woman named “Vanna Whitewall.” Officially, she was known as “Miss Uniroyal” or “The Uniroyal Gal.” In Atlanta, Illinois, there is now a home for these larger-than-life statues at the American Giants Museum.

One of these giants used to hold a hot dog outside a restaurant in Cicero. Another is a Texaco “Big Friend” – part of an advertising campaign that lasted only two years. Another is the “Esso Tiger” and one is referred to as the “Snerd.”

Bill Thomas, an employee of the American Giants Museum, believes the giant statues are perfect for attracting tourists.

“And the longer they stay in town, the more likely they are to visit our stores, restaurants and gas stations and spend money here,” Thomas said.

“This makes Atlanta the largest concentration of American giants along Route 66, from Chicago to LA.”

The giants are already attracting travelers. Two couples from France arrived on their Harleys to catch a glimpse of the statues.

More statues are to follow, just in time for the 100th anniversary of the “Mother Road”.