weather vanes: rooster, chickens, cats, dogs and witches

Garden or rooftop classic copper weather vanes

picture of dog weathervaneA shift in the wind was one of the earliest indicators of a change in weather. Garden weathervanes add a certain charm to any home or rooftop and is becoming very popular as a home and garden decoration.

There are weathervanes for small, large and medium roof lines or for cupolas. This type of outdoor accent adds country charm to any home even if it's in the city.

These garden decorations are not just restricted to rooftops. They are now being made for the garden as well. Garden weathervanes are a decorative feature that you can use as a garden accessory to add something special and different.

Four distinct styles

Copper  Weathervanes
Available in both polished and antiqued finish.

Steel Weathervanes
These beautiful weather vanes are hand-crafted from plasma-cut steel and made entirely in the U.S.A.

Stained Glass
All stained glass weather vanes come with a stainless steel and brass assembly rod making them rust and maintenance free.

Aluminum
Most are available as a black silhouette or a brightly painted version. Aluminum weather vanes also cost less than most comparable copper ones making it a perfect gift.

Where did weathervanes originate

The weathervane is believed to have originated in the 9th Century, out of man's need to understand and predict the weather. Weathervanes have evolved to incorporate compass points, that further enjoy a rich history in ornamentation and are considered by many as an art form.

Early American settlers brought this traditional vane with them, adorning many New England churches. Other designs included fish, sea gulls, and even ships, which stood upon roof tops in coastal towns. Paul Revere placed a wooden codfish studded with copper nails for scales above his silversmith shop in Boston.

Farmers however, as they could not see the town’s vanes, erected their own. Being far from the local blacksmith, they invented their own designs. Breaking with tradition, the farmers created vanes in the shape of Indians, arrows, and wild and domesticated animals, especially horses. After the Revolution, eagles too became popular.

Beginning in 1875 vanes were mass-produced in metal, using wooden, hand-carved models. Manufacturers advertised hundreds of shapes in elaborate catalogues that reflected the growth of the United States: the railroad, fire-fighting equipment, and farm specialization.

However, many of the favorites continue to be tied to nature and animal weathervane. Weathervanes are also becoming very popular Outdoor gifts.

We carry an extensive selection of modern styled weathervanes as well as traditional favorites; all fully functional weathervanes and manufactured of the finest rust-resistant materials. Rooftop and garden staking weathervanes.

If you are looking for other garden decorations go back to our main page about garden decor for other outdoor decor ideas.

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garden weathervane
Search for more interesting designs in weathervanes

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