Weathervanes - New Age Lawn Ornaments

Traditional weathervanes have been a part of Western culture for thousands of years and date back all the way to antiquity. Weather vanes originally came to America from Europe and they became very popular for people living in New England. Because this part of the country depended heavily upon the sea for its livelihood and survival, many antique windvanes featured fish or other maritime themes. As the nation grew and advanced westward, other themes became popular on weather vanes, including: horses, roosters, and other farming related topics.

Finials like the weathervane were not mere aesthetic adornments for the rooftop or cupola—they used to be very necessary for survival! Before the invention of the Weather Channel, people had to rely on their copper weathervane (most antique windvanes are made from copper as it was a very common and popular material) to warn them of advancing storms or other potential dangers to their livelihood and family. But, as communication and technology advanced, the practical necessity for the weathervane faded along with its overall popularity and use.

Today, however, there has been a dramatic resurgence in traditional weathervanes but not necessarily in the classic sense. In the past, people would climb to the roof in order to mount a weather vane as it was the most practical place to determine wind direction. Today, however, people are deciding instead to use their beautiful weathervanes in less traditional roles and many are opting to use them as lawn ornaments.

Made in a far greater variety of styles, sizes, and designs, the modern weathervane is at home in just about any lawn or garden. Far from the typical gnomes and other landscaping accoutrements, ornate weathervanes help your home stand out from the crowd and may very well make you the envy of friends and family alike.

If you are interested in adding a traditional windvane to your landscape, try getting online and shopping around for the best prices and greatest selection. Online merchants, because of their low overhead, can offer contemporary and classic weathervanes in a greater array of choices and at more competitive prices than most traditional retailers.

Just be sure to decide upon the material beforehand as it can play a large role in pricing. Timeless weathervanes are offered in a wide variety of materials, including: aluminum, copper, or even brass. The best material for you will depend upon the exterior of your home and your particular taste.

By Jennifer Akre