SO HOW DID I DISCOVER Bing Skelton’s place near Clearwater? Blogger friend and frequent commenter, Jackie, posed that question after yesterday’s post. Great question, given Bing’s collection of service station collectibles, phone booths and more is tucked out of the way along Stearns County Road 143 north of Clearwater.
My brother-in-law, Tom, checks out gas pumps and signage fronting Bing’s garage.
My sister-in-law, Annette, and her husband, Marty, noticed Bing’s place when they were scouting out a location for the Helbling family reunion in May. So, on reunion day, several of us headed over to check things out.
An eagle carved by Bing graces the circle drive entrance to his property.
And what we found is one of those rare treasures that makes exploring the back roads such a delightful experience. It’s truly about following the less-traveled route, slowing down and taking time to stop that leads you to these unique people and places.
Sometimes it pays to forget about time.
That’s my advice: Get off the interstate. Slow down. Stop. Take time. Appreciate.
Charles “Bing” Skelton just outside his garage.
To meet folks like Bing and his wife, Mary, uplifts one’s spirits, reaffirms that, in this rat race of life, it’s worth slowing down. Fail to do so, and you miss out on so much.
BONUS PHOTOS:
Signage above the garage door.
A back and side view of Bing’s garage.
Lots of vintage gas pumps to study up close.
Seats from farm implements appear as art to my eyes.
One of many phone from your car phones. So classic.
You’ll find this tribute to Minnesota native Charles Lindbergh behind the garage.
A gauge on a really old gas pump.
A fast food drive-in is recreated on a wing of the garage.
Locals will appreciate this pizza sign from a regional grocery store.
More signs to appreciate from this rural area.
Signage that simply made me laugh.
Bing’s collection even includes motor oil cans.
Bing probably has enough horses for his own merry-go-round.
No coke sold here, but…
Copyright 2014 Audrey Kletscher Helbling
Minnesota Prairie Roots 
Bing looks like a character and has quite a fabulous place, doesn’t he? i am a fan of both the off the road places and the on the road places. They both have their charm but for the Minnesota prairie rooted gal this must have been heaven. 🙂
You know me well.
Wow those are really interesting to look at.
Lots to see and a lot I missed, I’m sure.
A petro collectors dream. Next time I am in the area I will have to stop.
Stop. Yes. Dream. Yes.
Here’s Your Sign – sorry could not resist – love exploring places like this – brings back some memories at times too! Loving your captures 🙂 Happy Weekend!!!
You have a great weekend, too, Renee, and thanks for being such a faithful reader and commenter. I always appreciate your positive attitude.
Does anyone know the ‘OPEN’ hours of Bing’s?
I don’t know that he has “hours.” I’d suggest calling or simply stopping in if you live in the area. I expect Charles Skelton’s phone number could be found online. Good luck.