When you think of barns or old farm houses, you typically think of the weather vanes that sit on the top. Made of metal, weather vanes turn in the direction that the wind is blowing from and were used by farmers so that they could make weather predictions. While we do not need vanes for the weather anymore, they are great for decorations, especially in a homey kitchen or in the garden. The traditional vane had a rooster on the very top, but you can find them with virtually any animal. If you are truly lucky, you can sometimes find an online site that will allow you to customize the vane with the animal that you choose.

Man has studied, feared and worshipped winds, and their direction has meant favor or disaster. A simple device that was hammered and mounted on high places therefore became an important tool, as it told the direction of winds. Weathervanes have been used since 48 AD and are still being used, although they have lost the function for which they were designed. Today copper weathervanes are sought after for their looks and durability. They can last for generations because they resist the beatings of harsh weather. At most, they may develop a patina, which makes them look even more beautiful. Today, copper weathervanes take the shape of darting deers or soaring eagles.

 In the past, the farmer or anyone working outdoors had to know which way the wind was blowing. In many places, an east wind meant rain, and there were weather vanes all over the place, in towns and on the farms. By the way, do you know why the rooster has been so prominently featured on the weather vanes? According to history, a papal decree a thousand years ago ordered that all churches should have a rooster on top of their steeples. As the church steeple was usually the tallest structure in town, it was logical that the weather vane be placed there for all people to see. That is how it is believed that the rooster and the weather vane became one. Today we can find weather vanes with many different motifs, ranging from dogs to cars to ships or birds. However, the rooster still has maintained its place as one of the favorite motifs among all the manufacturers of weather vanes. When you start shopping for a weather vane for your home, you should decide what you want it to be, a traditional one with a rooster, or a truly individual one that reflects the interests of the owner. Today the trend seems to be leaning towards  the latter option.

Birds in flight are one beautiful scene, which is why this weathervane would be a fabulous choice for adding to your house or cottage. Featuring three geese with their wins in full extension, it is one stunning site. With its full size design, this weathervane is one top notch selection that you will wish you would’ve purchased sooner.

Perfect for adding a decorative touch to your outdoor space, this hanging birdbath is one selection that will be sure to please. It is extremely pleasing to the eye thanks to its rose patterned design while also being useful since it gives birds a nice place to splash and play around. Hang this birdbath from any overhang to enjoy it for years.

Perfect for adding a decorative touch to your outdoor space, this hanging birdbath is one selection that will be sure to please. It is extremely pleasing to the eye thanks to its rose patterned design while also being useful since it gives birds a nice place to splash and play around. Hang this birdbath from any overhang to enjoy it for years.

For a traditional way to put a decorative spin on your cottage, turn to this lovely weathervane. What makes it so appealing to the eye is its rich detailing and you can get one that either has a polished copper finish or an antiqued finish. Also a great choice for placing on your home’s rooftop, this is a weathervane that you simply cannot live without.

Enjoy the beauty of this duck weathervane again and again by purchasing it for your living space. It is exceptionally detailed, giving it one pleasing appearance that is further enhanced by a polished copper finish. Also a great choice for placing on a cottage, at the end of a dock, or on a shed, this weathervane will be sure to impress.

What better way to top your cabin in the north woods than with the majestic beauty of this eagle weathervane. Crafted from rust-free aluminum and available in multiple colors this symbol of our great country will grace your roof for years to come. A gorgeous choice this weathervane serves as an exclamation point to the breathtaking wilderness it flies above.

Feed the birds around your home in style with this bird feeder. Featuring a tubed design, it has a pleasing appearance with its elegant cardinal design. A perfect spot for all birds to eat and enjoy a lovely summer day, this is bird feeder one pleasing selection.