Whiteland dedicates roundabout artwork to drag racing legend Bob Glidden

WHITELAND, Ind. (WISH) — Whiteland unveiled its newest roundabout Tuesday and dedicated a custom art piece to Bob Glidden on what would have been the NHRA drag racing legend’s 82nd birthday.

Glidden, a Whiteland native, won 85 races and 10 national championships during his career. Following his death in 2017, the town named a road in his honor near his former home and shop. This summer, crews constructed a roundabout at the intersection of Whiteland Road and Bob Glidden Boulevard, located at the Whiteland exit just west of Interstate 65.

The town partnered with Bo-Mar Industries to design and fabricate the centerpiece. Owners Bob and Mark Buchanan, both avid fans of Glidden and drag racing, called the project a natural fit.

“They built an amazing tribute to Bob Glidden that featured highlights in Bob’s career,” Carmen Young, Whiteland town manager said. “They also added a unique element to the artwork, which Bo-Mar calls an Easter egg. The Glidden family was known for their love of large birds, so if you look near the top of the artwork, you will see Murphy, a scarlet macaw.”

Nearly 100 people gathered to honor Glidden and celebrate the legacy he built on and off the track. Attendees traveled from neighboring states and communities across Indiana to w...