03/06/2024
The ‘World’s Heaviest Ball of Twine’ created by a Wisconsin man over the course of 44 years is once again on display in a new and permanent home.
James Frank Kotera, known to locals as “JFK,” started making the ball back in 1979 on his property in the Douglas County Town of Highland, Wisconsin. Over the years, the twine ball grew to 10 feet high, 22 feet wide, and now weighs about 24,100 pounds. The oval-shaped sphere is believed to be the world’s heaviest ball of twine and has became a roadside attraction that has drawn people from across the globe. After Kotera died in January 2023 at age 75, his friend and neighbor, Terri Nelson, raised funds to move the ball to ensure its preservation.
After months of fundraising supported by local businesses and community members, “JFK’s World Famous Ball of Twine” has been relocated to town of Highland property located at 9360 S. Douglas County S. The site also includes the town's hall, fire department and its transfer station; which is where Kotera used to work and town officials renamed "JFK Transfer Station" in his honor.
