Frazee, Minnesota, is home to a notable 22-foot tall turkey statue known as Big Tom, which attracts visitors seeking photo opportunities. Positioned off Highway 10, Big Tom symbolizes the region's poultry industry and the annual Turkey Days festival in the small town of 1,300 residents, located about 200 miles northwest of Minneapolis.
Big Tom is unique but not alone in the Midwestern landscape, where oversized statues of various themes abound. Minnesota features a giant loon in Vergas, a giant otter in Fergus Falls, and other larger-than-life representations such as a prairie chicken and a sugar beet. These oversized attractions serve as identity markers for smaller towns, helping to draw tourists and create local pride.
Local business owner Jay Estenson noted that such attractions are prevalent in the Midwest, where communities create their own fun, especially during harsh winters. The region boasts numerous claims to fame, including the world's largest watermelon slice in Iowa and giant sculptures representing various themes across several states.
In an effort to attract visitors and foster community pride, some small towns have sought to establish their own "world's largest" claims. For instance, in Casey, Illinois, a local entrepreneur created the world's largest wind chime to entice travelers from Interstate 70, leading to the addition of more giant structures in the town.
In Halstad, Minnesota, a giant sugar beet was installed to promote local agriculture and community identity. Local leaders emphasize the importance of these projects in showcasing civic pride and encouraging growth.
Big Tom's origins date back to the 1980s when community members sought a unique way to promote Frazee. The town was once home to a turkey hatchery and processing facility, making it a significant player in the turkey production industry, with Minnesota producing 38.5 million birds last year.
Despite the statue's popularity, the original Big Tom faced deterioration and was destroyed in an accident involving a blowtorch. A new Big Tom was subsequently erected. The town continues to celebrate its turkey heritage through various events and attractions, including a turkey-themed scavenger hunt and a new pub called the Gobbler.
Frazee residents are eager to be recognized for more than just Big Tom, as new businesses and community initiatives emerge. Mayor Mike Sharp highlighted the town's desire to improve quality of life, while many residents remain content with their town's identity as the home of the giant turkey.