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Queen Connie

Leicester, Vermont

A gorilla holding a VW Beetle isn't what you'd expect in rural Vermont. 

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This queen has been here since the 1980s. Crystal Nye (Atlas Obscura User)
This queen has been here since the 1980s. Crystal Nye (Atlas Obscura User)
Behold, the might of Queen Connie. Crystal Nye (Atlas Obscura User)
Queen Connie and Route 7 kfs386 (Atlas Obscura User)
detail of Queen Connie's face kfs386 (Atlas Obscura User)
detail of VW Beetle held by Queen Connie kfs386 (Atlas Obscura User)
Queen Connie holding a pumpkin kfs386 (Atlas Obscura User)
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While driving on US Highway 7 in Leicester, Vermont, you may do a double take. Standing in front of Pioneer Used Auto Sales stands the 19-foot concrete gorilla known as “Queen Connie.”

Connie was built in 1987 by artist T.J. Neil to draw business to the car lot. This enormous primate was sculpted out of layers of concrete over steel rebar armature. She holds one arm aloft, balancing a VW Bug in the air. Her other arm is intentionally lowered, palm upturned for those daring enough to climb on a give their best Fay Wray impression.

Know Before You Go

Although the hand makes for a fun photo-op, it's tricky to hop in and out of this enormous paw. Especially with smaller children, be careful that they don't tumble out.

gorillas cars roadside attractions statues
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Published
August 30, 2024
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