World's Largest Ball of Sisal Twine
- Admission
- Free
- Hours
- Open 24/7
- Duration
- 15-30 minutes
- Parking
- Free street parking is available directly adjacent to the gazebo.
- Access
- Wheelchair accessible ground-level viewing area under an open-air canopy.
A massive, ever-growing monument to community effort, this giant ball of twine was started by Frank Stoeber in 1953. Visitors can actually add their own piece of twine to the ball by contacting the local custodian. It currently weighs over 20,000 pounds.
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Begun in 1953 by local farmer Frank Stoeber, this monumental ball of twine was born from a simple desire to clean up his barn. By 1961, Stoeber had donated his massive creation to Cawker City, where it has remained a cherished community icon ever since.
Located under an open-air canopy on Wisconsin Street, the ball of twine is not just a static museum piece. Unlike other roadside giants, this monument continues to grow annually during the city's Twine-a-Thon event, where visitors are invited to add their own length of sisal twine.
The attraction has inspired local business owners to paint a yellow "twine line" on the sidewalks, leading visitors from the monument to other historic downtown sites. It stands as a testament to classic mid-century Americana and the wonderfully quirky spirit of rural Kansas.
Ratings
attractionVisitor Tips
- ◆ Stop by the local library or nearby businesses to ask for a free length of sisal twine so you can add your own piece to the ball.
- ◆ Follow the painted yellow twine line on the sidewalk to discover other local shops and murals throughout the downtown area.
- ◆ Plan your visit in late August if you want to participate in the annual Twine-a-Thon festival and community celebration.
Heads Up
- ◆ Do not attempt to add non-sisal string, household yarn, or any unauthorized materials to the ball, as only official sisal twine is allowed.
- ◆ The attraction is located outdoors under a shelter, so be prepared for seasonal weather extremes when visiting.
Common questions
Can you actually add twine to the ball yourself?
Yes, visitors are allowed and encouraged to add sisal twine to the ball. You can obtain twine to add by visiting the Cawker City Library during business hours or by contacting the local custodian whose information is posted on the gazebo sign.
Is the Cawker City twine ball open 24 hours a day?
Yes, the twine ball is located under an open-air gazebo on the main street and can be viewed at any time of day or night. There are no gates, fences, or admission fees preventing access.
Is there a gift shop or visitor center at the twine ball?
There is no dedicated visitor center at the site, but souvenirs and postcards can be purchased at the Cawker City Library and other local businesses along Wisconsin Street.