Muffler Man: White's Tire
For this edition of Muffler Man Monday, you get two for the price of one! When my mom agreed to take this road trip with me, she knew that our main destination was South of the Border, but she asked that I keep all of the other stops a surprise. I personally hate surprises but I do love being in control, so it was really fun to be able to experience her anticipation without any of the anxiety of not knowing where we were headed. After seeing a few Muffler Men, that became her first guess for every stop, but even when she was right, she was always surprised by the different types (and to be honest, after planning so many stops, so was I).
Both men are at White's Tire locations, exactly a mile apart in Wilson, North Carolina. The first Muffler Man stands on top of the roof, at a location that is currently closed and for sale. I'm glad that the Muffler Man is still standing so that we were able to see him, but I wonder if he will be sold along with the building or moved to one of White's other locations. He looks slightly different than other Muffler Men we've seen but I'm not sure if that's because of his paint job or his stubby legs.
The second Muffler Man is at a much larger location that is very much still in business. He is definitely more traditional than the first, and obviously well-maintained. He also holds a tire in his hand, and I think it's funny that the shear size of these giants make normal-sized tires appear as if they're almost miniature.
He's waving to traffic and potential customers, but my mom pointed out that he sort of also looks like he might be doing a Nazi salute? Maybe it's just the current (garbage) political climate or the pairing with "White's Tire" but now this arm style has been sort of tainted for me. I wish they could somehow be modified to look more like the Muffler Man at Trader's World, who is sporting a much friendlier wave.
White's Tire Muffler Man #1
740 Goldsboro Street SW
Wilson, North Carolina
Location closed and for sale, but Muffler Man still visible
White's Tire Muffler Man #2
701 Hines Street S
Wilson, North Carolina
Location is open and Muffler Man is easily accessible
