Giant Metal Knight Guards Castle on ND Highway

In Regent, North Dakota, a 32-mile stretch known as the Enchanted Highway has become a unique roadside attraction, thanks to Gary Greff's vision. Since 1991, Greff, a former educator, has utilized scrap metal to construct enormous sculptures, revitalizing his struggling hometown. His ambitious project began with the Tin Family and has since expanded to include eight distinct installations.

One notable piece, "Geese in Flight," erected in August 2001, achieved a Guinness World Record in 2002 as the world's largest scrap-metal sculpture, measuring 110 feet high and 154 feet wide. Greff's most recent 2024 project features a 41-foot knight, Sir Albert, guarding the Enchanted Castle, and a 42-foot dragon, designed for interactive visitor experiences with fire-breathing and sound effects.

At 75, Greff shows no signs of slowing down, with plans for giant spider sculptures underway. Meanwhile, the Friends of the Enchanted Highway Foundation is securing funding for annual maintenance, estimated at $70,000, and future development. Their efforts include seeking grants and sponsorships to ensure the legacy of these imaginative artworks continues to draw economic opportunity to Regent.