One of America's treasures is advertising art. Those of us who grew up in the 1940's, 1950's, and 1960's remember well the little icons who hawked their wares on our television screens. We didn't need a spokesperson like Billy Mayes. We had Speedy selling Alka Seltzer, the Trix Rabbit ("Trix are for kids."), Coke-a-Cola guzzling Santas, Mr. Clean (he's still with us), and the glamorous Dinah Shore ("See the U.S.A. in your Chevorlet.").

I have always heard about Toot Toot at Bethany, Missouri. People told me the food was wonderful.

Having time on our hands a couple of weeks ago - and it was dinner time - we drove down to Bethany. I was not prepared for the visual wonders housed inside.

All kinds of antiquities and advertising art.

The Jersey Creamery cow at the cash register caught my eye. I thought she was the most unique piece of advertising art I had ever seen. I've seen many episodes of Antiques Roadshow but had never seen anything quite like her.

I asked our waitress about her. She said everything, including the cow, was for sale.

I thought a moment, then asked how much they wanted for the cow.

"I don't know but I'll find out," said our waitress.

A few minutes later, our waitress returned to inform me that for $150 the cow could be mine.

I thought a minute, deciding that I didn't have $150 to purchase the cow.

"May I take her picture instead?" I asked.

"Of course!" replied our waitress.

So here she is, in all of her glory. I just had to share her with you.

I thought the hound dog print behind the cow was unique too and made sure I got it in the photograph.

If you are ever in Bethany and are looking for something good to eat - or something to delight your eyes - stop at Toot Toot. You won't be sorry.

If you come across unique items of advertising art, take a photograph and send it to me. I'll post it here to share with everyone and give you credit for your "find."

Contribution & photograph [taken at Toot Toot, Bethany, Missouri] by Sharon R. Becker, November of 2009