Classic weathervanes are the perfect complement to any roof line and make the perfect finial for a cupola. Shortly after World War I, traditional weathervanes began to lose popularity as rural America began its final push into the cities. Plus, with the invention of the radio, the need to predict the weather in rural farming communities became less of a necessity. By the 1960's, it seemed as though weathervanes would become another piece of American folk culture and little more than an attraction at cultural museums.



But, as though harkening back to some simpler time, the popularity of the windvane began to surge again in recent years and suddenly they started appearing on rooftops and cupolas all over the nation. Adding to the resurgent popularity of the weather vane is a group of collectors who scour the country for antique copper vanes and restore them. There is even a large following on Ebay that regularly buy and sell these classic pieces of Americana regularly and even clubs that gather every year to talk about and share the most recent discoveries.

Basically, the popularity of stylish and classic weathervanes has returned and people are buying them in all shapes and sizes to place atop their rooftops. The classic weathervanes typically featured agriculture themes, such as: roosters, cows, and horses. New England homeowners typically had themes relating to the sea, such as fish. Contemporary vanes feature both the classic themes and a wide assortment of popular icons and ideas relevant to today's society.

However, because many live in apartment communities or rental houses, the prospect of adding a weathervane to the roof top may simply be impractical or a violation of the lease agreement. Also, many elderly love the idea of having a traditional weathervane atop their home but don't want to risk injury by climbing up a ladder and mounting one to the roof. In any of the cases above, one very viable alternative is to mount the weather vane in a garden.

Like any lawn adornment, classic weathervanes add a touch of personality to one's landscaping. Also, it is just sometimes fun to watch them as a storm is approaching or simply to admire them from a garden bench. The idea is that you don't need to limit yourself to the rooftop when it comes to mounting a weathervane. You can even use a vane to help decorate a barn or garage. Therefore, if you love traditional weathervanes but cannot for some reason mount one to the top of your home, use your imagination and place them wherever you wish!