The American Giants Museum along old Route 66 in Atlanta, Illinois, recently landed a new owner.
The museum stated in a Facebook post that Lee Woods of Hot Springs, Arkansas, purchased the property. As Woods’ Facebook account shows, he’s an aficionado of Muffler Men.
More from the museum’s post:
Moving forward, Joel Baker and American Giants will be working directly with Lee as we continue to bring to giants and exhibits to Atlanta, IL. Lee is a well-known vintage sign and giant collector with a deep passion for Muffler Men, making this a natural and exciting next chapter. […]
Looking ahead to 2026 with Lee at the helm working together with Joel, two additional Muffler Men are planned to arrive. In 2026 we will start seeing giants from both collections on display. A brave version from Bemidji, MN named Nanabozho will arrive from the American Giants collection and a custom replica Astro Oil Space Man will be arriving from Lee’s collection Giants Garage .
In addtion, the museum season will be extended with longer hours, free admission will continue (donations accepted), and a new Route 66-themed shop is planned nearby. Atlanta is on track to become the Muffler Man capital of Route 66!
The museum held its grand opening in May 2024. The facility, located in a repurposed gas station, tells the story of Muffler Men and their initial creator, International Fiberglass.
Baker, a champion of Muffler Men, and the Atlanta Betterment Fund, which initially purchased the land, constructed the building and managed the day-to-day operations, joined forces in 2021 to create the museum. Baker will be working directly with Woods as partners to run the museum.
The museum has a rotating collection of memorabilia and has added several Muffler Men since the opening.
Woods also owns a business across the street from the museum and plans to transform it into a Route 66-themed store, offering treats and Route 66 merchandise.
Bill Thomas of the Betterment Fund will continue to help with exhibits and creating the interpretive panels for the museum.
(Image of the American Giants Museum in Atlanta, Illinois, during its 2024 grand opening)