I like weathervanes. You used to see them quite frequently atop houses and barns. Some had fanciful designs that reflected the personality of the owner. Others were simple and functional designs to show which way the wind or storm was coming from.

 

Weathervanes go back in history to ancient times at the Tower of the Winds in Athens, 48 B.C. Their design through the ages has ranged from the simple flags of peasant farmers and colorful banners of Noblemen, to the regal Crests of Kings.

The American landscape used to be dotted with weathervanes and it was fun to see all the different varieties. They gave a house or building that special finishing touch and style.

Weathervane designs were often regional in design - with coastal themes such as boats or whales seen along the shore. Horse weather vanes would grace the barns of a horse ranch. Cows, pigs and roosters were popular in rural farming areas. While in town, stylish silhouettes of carriages might be seen. Many people in the New England cities favored patriotic Eagles. Churches used rooster weathervanes to symbolize Peter and the rooster crowing 3 times.

Today weathervanes are making a comeback. I think this is a good thing. There are too many houses all looking the same nowadays and they need a little something to make them stand out from the crowd.

There are many designs on the market, from small garden weathervanes to larger ones designed for a shed or rooftop.

Which kind will you choose? A cat or dog, perhaps a bass for a fisherman, a patriotic eagle, or maybe your favorite college.

Go ahead and show off your personality - get a Weather Vane!