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Von Rothenberger |
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Keith Stokes |
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Keith Stokes
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The Ball of Twine is a finalist for the 8 Wonders of Kansas because it is a
legendary icon of Kansas and the largest Ball of Twine in the world still
growing!
Mention Kansas and one of the first things anyone will talk about is the
Ball of Twine. People may give a chuckle when the Ball of Twine is
mentioned, but curiosity gets them best of them and they to go see it. The
Ball of Twine is also part of the most highly debated topic in the arena of
the world's largest things. Which town does have the world's largest ball
of twine? Cawker City Kansas wins the debate if you're looking for the
World's Largest Ball of Sisal Twine still growing! Frank Stoeber started
winding twine December 24, 1953 on his farm and soon neighbor farmers
started bringing their twine to him. In 1961 his symbol of thrift had grown
to such grand proportions that it was moved to town under a shelter so all
could see it! Frank has since passed away but the community still adds to
the Ball of Twine at the annual Twine-athon held the third weekend of every
August. When visitors stop at the Ball of Twine and are noticed by twine
ball caretaker, Linda Clover, she zooms over in her car and asks them if
they, too, want to add to the Ball of Twine! Smiles broaden as she opens
her trunk and pulls out some twine, carefully records the amount, and then
helps the delighted visitor become part of history! As of September 2009 the Ball
of Twine weighed 19,198 pounds and is 7,974,454 feet long--1,510.31 miles
worth! Darwin, Minnesota is known as the World's Largest Ball of Sisal
Twine wound by one man. This finished product weighs in at 17,400 pounds
and is approximately 40 feet in circumference. There is a larger plastic
ball of twine but it weighs much less. This debate is for the heavyweights!
You'll see a great complement to the Ball of Twine if you stroll down the
two-block business district. Artist Cher Heller Olson has drawn familiar
paintings and added a ball of twine to each. Can you find it in the da
Vincis, the Michelangelos, and the Monets?
Located: Downtown Cawker City on the south side of U.S. 24, under a canopy.
Contact: Linda Clover, 785.781.4470; clover@nckcn.com
Hours and admission charge: N/A
