The Tire as a Ferris Wheel - 1964
The Giant Uniroyal Tire, also known as the Uniroyal Tire Ferris Wheel (or Giant U.S. Royal Tire), is a famous landmark located in Allen Park, Michigan, USA. Here are some key details about the Giant Uniroyal Tire:
1. Size and Design: The tire stands at a height of approximately 80 feet (24 meters) and weighs around 12 tons. It is a replica of a Uniroyal tire, specifically the Uniroyal Laredo model.
2. History: The Giant Uniroyal Tire was originally created as a Ferris wheel for the 1964-1965 New York World's Fair. It was designed by the architectural firm Shreve, Lamb & Harmon, who also designed the Empire State Building.
3. Relocation: After the World's Fair, the tire was moved to its current location in Allen Park, Michigan, near the Uniroyal sales office. It has become a beloved local landmark and a symbol of the automotive industry in the Detroit area.
4. Features: The tire structure consists of steel beams and a fiberglass exterior. It has a rotating platform inside that was once used to give visitors a view of the surrounding area. However, the rotating feature is no longer operational.
5. Landmark Status: The Giant Uniroyal Tire is recognized as a historic landmark by the Michigan Historical Commission and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
The Giant Uniroyal Tire is an iconic symbol of the automotive industry and a nostalgic reminder of the World's Fair. It continues to attract visitors who appreciate its unique design and historical significance.
**For more info on the Giant Tire, please see Virtual Geocache "They See Me Rollin' (VR3.0)" https://coord.info/GC9P61D