If you’ve spent any time around farms, you’re probably familiar with weathervanes. If you’ve spent any time around ranches, those weathervanes are quite likely to showcase stallions or model mares. Of course we’re all familiar with the renowned rooster weathervane and the arrows of old, but why are horses featured on weathervanes? Join Valley Forge Cupolas as we trace the history of horse popularity and pinpoint the prelude to the horse weathervane.
Why Livestock In The First Place?
In early agricultural America, weathervanes were already wildly popular for their practical purposes as indicators of wind direction. Soon enough, however, farmers started getting creative; modeling weathervanes to resemble family traditions and favored farm animals, the legacy of livestock weathervanes began. And so the story of the horse weathervane started to unfoaled.
Off To The Races!
Though horse racing can be traced back to ancient cultures, it found its pinnacle in 19th century America. With the advent of long-distance horse racing, the sport exploded from its southern origins and galloped throughout the country, resulting in over 300 operational race courses across the nation. The explosive market for horse-race betting only served to further the popularity of the beloved animal; the horse had taken a meteoric leap from simple farmyard fame to national celebrity.
Emblems Of The Equine Elite
Not all horses were created equal; some displayed wondrous trotting talent and blistering racing speeds, while others lagged and lingered in the dust. It didn’t take long for horse race enthusiasts and avid betters to single out favorites from amongst the most successful horses in competition.
As these horse celebrities gained popularity throughout America, they began being featured in lithography, a popular printmaking process at the time. Renowned champions like “Smuggler,” “Blackhawk,” “Ethan Allen” and “George M. Patchen '' were frequently featured in what would become world famous lithographic prints.
As these horse celebrities gained popularity throughout America, they began being featured in lithography, a popular printmaking process at the time. Renowned champions like “Smuggler,” “Blackhawk,” “Ethan Allen” and “George M. Patchen '' were frequently featured in what would become world famous lithographic prints.
From Wall Ornaments To Weathervanes
Eventually, savvy artisans translated famous horse lithographs into various other media, including the weathervane. Once only featuring crude renderings of favorite farmyard friends, the horse weathervane suddenly became a showcase for the horse celebrities of the time. These are the models we see featured on weathervanes to this very day.
Now That You Know Why Horses Are Featured On Weathervanes…
…why not trot along with the tradition yourself? Valley Forge Cupolas offers a variety of horse weathervanes in styles popularized during the horse racing craze of 19th century America. Whether you’re a horse lover or a horse history enthusiast, our weathervanes are sure to satisfy your equine appetites. For a galloping good time, hoof it over to Valley Forge Cupolas and pick up a horse weathervane today!
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