Uniroyal Gal
310 S Dallas Ave, Lamesa, TX 79331
Get there with Google Maps by clicking HERE
Date Visited: Unknown
One of the more common “odd & unusual” sites/attractions that gets a lot of attention on the internet is the “Muffler Man.” There are many sites and posts dedicated to him and various iterations and alterations made to him. I don’t really seek to find the “Muffler Man” because so many others are doing a great job covering him.
Far more rare is the “Uniroyal Gal.” There were far fewer of these and finding them “in the wild” is definitely more challenging. This one is better shape than most of the survivors. She has been “redressed” (painted) as a local high school cheerleader and has become a symbol of the town’s spirit!
Once again, what made this visit “extra good” (to borrow a line from Andy Griffith) was the people I spoke with while there. Gary Culp is the current owner of Reid Bethel Tire, where this “Gal” is located. He told us that the Uniroyal Gals were originally a promotional gimmick that traveled between various Uniroyal Tire stores for sales, events, etc. Her left hand (which is raised) held banners, signs, or other promotional items. He had an old poster of the original Uniroyal Gal in the garage (seen at left). The quality isn’t the best, but you can make out the original blue & yellow outfit.
Speaking of outfits, Mr. Culp told us that when the Uniroyal Gal was originally introduced she was clad in a red and white bikini. However, it was the 60’s and they all were recalled to be dressed more modestly as shown. Additionally, Mr. Culp who painted this “Gal” in her current cheerleader outfit confided in me that when sanding and prepping her that he discovered “she has (anatomically correct, at least above the waist)”. This is, after all a family site… LOL. Here’s a little closer look at the team logo.
Alas, the Uniroyal Gals’ fame was fleeting and they were scheduled to be “retired.” According to Mr. Culp, the original owner of the tire store, Donald Bethel, suggested to Uniroyal executives that the “Gals” be put up for bid. Mr. Bethel submitted his bid of $1.00 and ended up with the “Gal” in these photos. Mr. Culp told me that he bought the “Gal” from Mr. Bethel at a price considerably higher than the original purchase price.
As we were leaving, Mr. Culp was walking with us and told us a couple of stories. According to Mr. Culp, several people like to have their photos taken with the “Gal.” He recalled one particular elderly gentleman who pulled up to see her and literally hobbled over to take a look. The elderly gentleman’s inspection included a look up her skirt, a practice Mr. Culp says EVERYONE is guilty of. Mr. Culp went out to ask if the gentleman would like his photo taken and he told Mr. Culp, “I would love to, but the wife says we’re out of film. Just between you and me, I know she’s lying.” (That excuse wouldn’t be valid in today’s digital age!) Apparently, the Uniroyal Gal had caused a little “issue” between the couple!
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Thanks again!
Joe
