Weathervanes have been used since ancient times but their heyday in America was primarily from 1800 to the early 20th century. With the decline of small farms since World War II, weathervanes--and the barns they once perched atop--have become less frequent sights on the landscape.

Lisa Maxsom is out to change that. The Denver artist restores and reconstructs antique weathervanes, often from pieces she finds at antique shops, flea markets and auctions. The reassembled weathervanes make fascinating additions to gardens or patios, as well as for garages, garden sheds or potting sheds.

Most weathervanes have three main parts: directional motifs, arrows and glass balls. Most also doubled as lightning rods. No country barn was complete without a weathervane topped by a trotting horse, rooster, pig or cow. Other fanciful motifs included dogs, ships and fish. The directional arrows were just as important. Many were decorated ornately, with many having colored glass in their tails. Bright glass balls in many shades often separated the arrows from the top motifs.

Maxsom rarely finds complete weathervanes. Many have fallen victim to the ravages of time or gun-toting vandals. Instead, she finds individual pieces, refurbishes them and creates new weathervane sculptures. The results are delightful as garden art and a nostalgic render of our rural past. If you'd like more information about these weathervanes or for purchase, contact Lisa Maxson at (303) 455-0551.