When you think of the Southwest, you probably conjure up images of deserts, cactus, saloons and weathervanes. Well, weathervanes are not strictly the domain of the Southwest, no matter where you live, purchasing a weathervane from a store can add charm and distinction to any style of home décor.
Did you know that on record, the first known weathervane dates to 48 B.C. on the Tower of the Winds in Athens, where the builder, astronomer Adronicus chose to honor Triton (a Greek God) with his breathtaking weathervane? Apparently, this weathervane was noted as being four to eight feet long featuring the head and upper torso of a man with the remaining part of the body as a fish tail. Since the earliest Greek weathervanes, they have had a long and rich history throughout the centuries. Here’s just a brief synopsis:
The ninth century is noted for other early example of weathervanes like the prevalence of bronze Viking weathervanes that often adorned Scandinavian churches and Viking ships.
In addition, during the ninth century, the Pope seemingly declared that on the dome or steeple of all the churches in Europe a cock should be present to act as a reminder to all concerning Jesus’ prophecy that the cock would not crow the morning after the Last Supper, until the disciple Peter had denounced Him three times (Luke 22:34). Amazingly, today you can still see examples of these ‘weather cocks’ atop churches in both Europe and America.
As for the United States, our history documents that America’s first weathervane maker was Deacon Shem Drowne. He is most noted for in 1742 creating the renowned grasshopper vane that sits on top of Boston’s Faneuil Hall.
At the beginning of the 1800’s, history shows that Americans, not surprisingly, preferred weathervanes in patriotic designs.
During the final years of the 1800’s, many Victorian buildings had elaborate weathervanes and intricate metalwork adorning practically each inch of available roof space.
Now, in the 21st century, weathervane artists recreate both the antique weathervanes of America and Europe and have invented new forms, oftentimes using unique materials.
Weathervanes are more than just a fancy ornament atop a barn or home; they actually provide clues as to the wind and weather. Farmers look at their weathervane to get important information about planting crops or harvesting. Although very useful, most people want a weathervane to add a unique decorative touch or bold statement to their home. If you are interested in finding a weathervane store to add this unique adornment to your own home, you will find that weathervanes come in many designs and colors. A great place to shop for a weathervane for your home is at The Gifted Sparrow, as they have a comprehensive selection of high quality weathervanes. At this weathervane store, you can choose from the following types of weathervanes:
Airplane
Buck
Country Doctor
Dove of Peace
Eagle
Golden Retriever
Golfer
Goose
Horse
Liberty Flag
Lighthouse
Monarch Butterfly
Sailboat
Squirrel and Pine Trees
Trout
And many more!
Beyond the amazing selection, another reason to choose The Gifted Sparrow as your weathervane store of choice is the high quality of the weathervanes they sell. All crafted of rust free aluminum, these weathervanes are built to withstand the harsh realities of a changing climate.
