This Whimsical Attraction In Nebraska Proves There’s Still A Kid In All Of Us
Who says growing up has to be boring? There’s a delightful display in Grand Island that proves you can keep the wonder and joy of childhood long after you’ve reached adulthood.
The late Fred Schritt lived in Grand Island his entire life. He owned a successful body shop in town and was well known and liked in the community. But Fred's most visible legacy is the collection of whimsical cars and characters towering over the body shop's yard. They're held aloft atop tall poles, peeking out over the shop's fence to create a rather magical scene.
Known collectively as Fred's Flying Circus, these fun vehicles were all crafted by hand by the talented Fred Schritt. The materials used in each sculpture often came from thrift shops or junk sales, and Fred carefully constructed the vehicles and characters right there in the body shop.
Schritt had no formal art training, but he was by nature a tinkerer. He figured out how to do things on his own, including creating these whimsical "flying" cartoon cars and all kinds of fun characters.
The characters you'll see at the "circus" include Shrek, Tweety Bird, Smurfette, and the Purple People Eater. Some of the cars themselves have faces and personalities a la the characters from the Cars movies. Fred would often work from memory to create the characters; sometimes he used a picture or toy for reference. He was especially proud of this Snoopy and Garfield car, which he donated to the Grand Island Humane Society.
Fred passed away in 2016, but he left a legacy of unique art that the entire community can enjoy. As word has spread about this offbeat place, tourists have even made the Flying Circus a stop on their journey when they visit. It's worth a stop when you're in town, especially if you fancy yourself a kid at heart.
You can see Fred’s Flying Circus at G I Body Shop at 503 E 4th St, Grand Island, NE. Stand across the street for the best view. There is no charge to admire the collection.
For even more fun in Grand Island, check out this huge playground that the whole family will love.
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Address: 503 E 4th St, Grand Island, NE 68801, USA
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As a lifelong Nebraskan, Delana loves discovering the many hidden treasures of her state. She has worked as a writer and editor since 2007. Delana's work has been featured on more than a dozen websites and in Nebraska Life Magazine.
