We sat down with Rex for an exclusive interview and photoshoot this week. Once again, we’re impacted by Rex’s bravery and persistence. Read below for the full interview.

Explore Jax:
You’ve been in Jax since the 1970s. How do you feel about the recent growth of Jax?

Rex:
I support any growth in Jacksonville because my future depends on it. Being the last standing dinosaur in Jacksonville for the past 45 years has been challenging. The opportunities and gigs are not what they used to be. Currently, I live in a fenced area inside a shopping plaza parking lot. It’s not ideal, but I do the best I can with it. I still have my glowing eyes, and some people stop to take pictures of me, but it’s nothing like belonging to an amusement park where fans approach you 7-days a week for hours upon end. 

Explore Jax:
You approached us for a photo shoot. Why now?

Rex:
I want to let people know that I am still here. I’ve worked hard to stay in good condition in my older years. I finally feel confident in my scales. I want to show off my features in a new way. Many people know me as a robust and overpowering character. It’s time for the people of Jacksonville to see a new, more vulnerable side of me. I am ready.

Explore Jax:
How did you prepare for the shoot?

Rex:
Honestly, it was a lot of mental practice more than anything. I tried to focus on not judging those who misjudge my motives, which can wear you down. Just because my eyes glow red at night doesn’t mean I’m not an apathetic loving dinosaur. Just because I hold a large bone doesn’t mean I will bite your head off. Learning to love others despite their judgment has made the most profound impact on my life. That life shift allowed me to be mentally ready for this shoot.

Explore Jax:
Once again, you have left us speechless. Thank you for taking the time to sit down with us. It’s always a pleasure chatting with you.

Rex:
Haha, come on, youuu guys are the best. You’ve always been supportive and of help when I needed it. Thank You!!

Rex’s Location:
10150 Beach Blvd
Jacksonville, FL 32246

Fact’s about Rex:
1. Rex is a Jacksonville historical landmark.

2. Rex is 20-foot tall and made of concrete.

3. Rex was created in the 1970s for a mini gold course called Gooney Golf. When the Golf Course shut down in 1999, Rex was preserved and re-homed to his current placement.

That’s all folks! Thanks for reading!

As always, never stop exploring! – Esther Rimert