First used as a real tool to gauge New England’s ever-changing weather, and now viewed as a classic part of American Folk Art, weathervanes historic and unusual have been a part of the region’s skyline for over 300 years. In the most comprehensive work to come out on the subject in the last forty years, this book tells of the evolution of the weathervane both in form and function from colonial times down to the present.

Highlights include the many photographs of historic and unusual vanes from all states in New England and the stories that stand behind their symbolism and choice of subject matter. Equally important are the weathervane makers throughout the region whose careers are here documented, including well-known companies, individual tradesmen, and even some women, and whose works are still flying today above countless buildings. While many notable museum weathervanes are discussed, the main focus is on those weathervanes that can still be seen today on New England public buildings such as churches, historic meetinghouses, and town halls, making this book an invaluable guide to both the armchair tourist and those who want to visit these unique pieces of folk art in person.