windmill light garden weathervane

windmill light garden weathervane

The wind spinner goes by many names. Spinner, twirler, whirligig, twister, pinwheel etc… Its origins start with the wind mill. That’s a good place to start our discussion.

No one knows who the original inventor of the windmill was. Indications have never been found that wind mills existed in classical Greece or Rome. Evidence shows the first windmills appeared in Persia around 644 BC to raise water. The trail of development to the West starts in Arabia circa 1000 AD. Then through Tibet, China, and finally England in 1150 AD. These early devices were all of the horizontal type. In this type the blades or sails are connected to a vertical shaft. There is no way for it to change direction with the wind. At this point development of the horizontal windmill continued but a new type of device called the post windmill appeared. This is the more traditional one that we are familiar with. Its shaft is horizontal with the ground and is geared to a vertical shaft inside the mill body. Outside on the end of the horizontal shaft is a unit with four sails mounted to it. The angle to the shaft was set to allow the wind to push the sails in one direction causing the shaft to turn. Early windmills of this type allowed the whole mill to rotate about the vertical shaft. Later versions developed that allowed only the top to rotate and with the attachment of a weathervane on the back of the shaft allowed automatic direction.The blades always remained pointed in the wind.

Later in 1756 in what was going to be the early American colonies farmers found more uses for the new fangled windmill device. They found that birds and ground animals had no use for the whirling structures and so ever smaller versions were built just for the purpose of scaring animals. As they got smaller and smaller a new word was coined to describe them – the whirlygig. The word is derived from the verb to whirl. Perhaps it was the misspelling of the word with its similarity to the torture device the whirligig (developed in 1440) that propelled it to popularity. But before you know it a whole plethora of small contraptions appeared. Including things with spinning legs, arms, twirling wheels or spinners, fans that turned fast etc… Many were shaped like hideous animal abominations. With a weathervane tail attached they seemed to be alive. This aspect scared off troublesome birds and animals.

Whirligigs became popular again in the 1930′s. They were a way for farmers to make money during the depression. After a time whirlygigs branched into different kinds of spinning devices. One was the pinwheel with its obvious connection to the original windmills became a landmark child’s toy. The wind twirler came out of this also. This is similar to a vertical wind mill in that a single twisted piece of metal is angled in to the wind. Any small breeze causes it rotate about its axis.

The aviation Wind Sock also developed from the weathervane aspect and is used as a weather instrument. Some credit for the invention of the windsock is given to the Chinese. They flew kites as far back as 500 BC. Some were shaped like socks with an open end.

The wheels or spinners of the whirlygigs shot off a whole other branch called wind spinners. Some are similar to pinwheels or the business end of a windmill with its horizontal shaft. Some are based on the vertical shaft principle and are usually suspended from that vertical shaft which is the axis of rotation.

The vertical shaft wind spinner has the additional benefit of being seen from the side or a normal viewing angle. A single slab of wood or metal turning is satisfying in itself. But, remember the kaleidoscope where rapidly moving pages with coordinated changes in each “frame” created the illusion of movement.

Now imagine a single slab of stainless steel cut into multiple rings inside each other. Then each one individually bent around the axis. All rings equally spaced through a 90 degree arc. Motion of the resulting structure about its axis would also create the illusion of movement of light from the center outward. Thus the stainless steel wind spinner is born.

Today with the advent of precise computer controlled laser cutting machines any design within the limitations of the cutter can be created as a wind spinner. Stainless steel wind spinners cannot rust making them weatherproof and come with there own swivel and are available in a multitude of powder coated colors. Therefore they can be used indoors or out. For indoor use motors are available to rotate them continuously. In the outdoors the wind will turn them. They can be hung from just about anything that gives them room to move.

You, your family, friends, and even pets will spend hours watching the ever changing light patterns.

Zen Garden Path Light by Kichler $240 A stylish way to add peace and tranquility to the rock garden or path. The Kichler Lighting Zen Garden Path Light expresses a comfortable balance between nature and man in its minimalist design. Crafted with an earth-toned Olde Bronze finish that patinas over time and harmonizes with any backyard landscape. Since 1938, Cleveland-based Kichler Lighting has created exceptional lighting in a variety of styles, finishes, colors and designs. With a diverse collection of indoor and outdoor lighting in classic and contemporary styles, Kichler Lighting always focuses on making home lighting that is both beautiful and functional. The Kichler Lighting Zen Garden Path Light is available with the following: Details: Textured Amber Seedy Linen glass diffuserBrass constructionOlde Bronze finish 30" wire8" In-ground stakeUL Listed for Wet LocationsLighting:Shipping: This item usually ships in 3-5 days. Dimensions: Fixture: Width 7 In., Height 24 In.

Zen Garden Deck Light by Kichler $65 Imparts a Zen balance to the garden. The Kichler Lighting Zen Garden Deck Light complements Asian-inspired homes and gardens with its Textured Seedy linen glass diffuser and natural patinaed brass faceplate. An Olde Bronze finish blends with outdoor landscaping for a look that can be enjoyed for years to come. Since 1938, Cleveland-based Kichler Lighting has created exceptional lighting in a variety of styles, finishes, colors and designs. With a diverse collection of indoor and outdoor lighting in classic and contemporary styles, Kichler Lighting always focuses on making home lighting that is both beautiful and functional. The Kichler Lighting Zen Garden Deck Light is available with the following: Details: Textured Seedy linen glass diffuserBrass constructionStainless steel mounting bracketOlde Bronze finish72" wireUL Listed for Wet LocationsLighting: One 6.5 Watt 12 Volt Low-voltage Incandescent lamp (included). Shipping: This item usually ships in 3-5 days. Dimensions: Fixture: Height 2.75 In., Width 3.37 In., Depth 1.5 In.

Zen Garden Post Light by Kichler $180 The Kichler Lighting Zen Garden Post Light is an Asian-inspired fixture for subtle path lighting. Features a Textured Seedy linen glass diffuser and a solid brass frame formed to represent updated Asian design with a touch of the exotic. Finished in Olde Bronze for an earthy appearance. This fixture attaches to a 4"x4" post or a 4" wide rail with the included adapters. Post not included. Since 1938, Cleveland-based Kichler Lighting has created exceptional lighting in a variety of styles, finishes, colors and designs. With a diverse collection of indoor and outdoor lighting in classic and contemporary styles, Kichler Lighting always focuses on making home lighting that is both beautiful and functional. The Kichler Lighting Zen Garden Post Light is available with the following: Details: Textured Seedy linen glass diffuserSolid brass constructionOlde Bronze finishStainless steel adaptor59" wireFits a standard 4"x4" postPost not includedUL Listed for Wet LocationsLighting: One 16.25 Watt 12 Volt Low-voltage Incandescent lamp (included). Shipping: This item usually ships in 3-5 days. Dimensions: Fixture: Depth 7 In., Width 7 In., Height 5 In.

Zen Garden Bollard Path Light by Kichler $312 A Far Eastern design for the Asian-inspired landscape. The Kichler Lighting Zen Garden Bollard Path Light, its diffused light highlighting a distinctive brass design, enhances gardens and paths with its minimalist look. Features an earthy Olde Bronze finish that complements the natural outdoor surroundings. Since 1938, Cleveland-based Kichler Lighting has created exceptional lighting in a variety of styles, finishes, colors and designs. With a diverse collection of indoor and outdoor lighting in classic and contemporary styles, Kichler Lighting always focuses on making home lighting that is both beautiful and functional. The Kichler Lighting Zen Garden Bollard Path Light is available with the following: Details: Textured Amber Seedy Linen glass diffuserBrass constructionOlde Bronze finish35" wire8" In-ground stakeUL Listed for wet locationsLighting: One 16.25 Watt 12 Volt Low-voltage Incandescent lamp (included). Shipping: This item usually ships in 3-5 days. Dimensions: Fixture: Height 26 In., Width 7 In.

ORCHOS Garden Torch by Blomus $40.22 The Blomus ORCHOS Garden Torch creates a welcoming outdoor entertainment area with its soft and inviting glow and oil-based flickering flame. The ORCHOS Garden Torch was designed by Floz Design and features stainless steel. Blomus, headquartered in Germany, specializes in the design and manufacture of beautifully engineered home and office accessories in modern stainless steel styles. The Blomus ORCHOS Garden Torch is available with the following: Included Features:Stainless Steel oil-and-wick container.Wood mounting post with stake bottom.Designed by Floz Design.Shipping: This item usually ships within 2-3 business days. Dimensions: Item: Height 57 In., Diameter 2.75 In.

GRADO Garden Thermometer by Blomus $73.25 Watch the temperature rise with the Blomus GRADO Garden Thermometer. Made of stainless steel, this garden thermometer is one "plant" that won't need to be replaced with the seasons. Take your pick of Fahrenheit or Celsius. Comes with stainless steel stake. Created by Floz Design. Blomus, headquartered in Germany, specializes in the design and manufacture of beautifully engineered home and office accessories in modern stainless steel styles. The Blomus GRADO Garden Thermometer is available with the following: Details:Made of stainless steel, plastic and acrylic Designed by Floz DesignOptions:Temperature: Celsius, or Fahrenheit.Shipping: This item usually ships within 2-3 business days. Dimensions: Item: Depth .98 , Height 55.91 In., Overall Diameter 7.87 In.

Bola Garden Globe by Blomus $17.18 The Blomus BOLA Garden Globe will add beauty to your gardenscape, whether displayed individually or in groupings. The polished finish gives a convex reflection of your garden that is simply mind-blowing. The BOLA Garden Globe is made from stainless steel with a polished finish suitable for all weather conditions. Blomus, headquartered in Germany, specializes in the design and manufacture of modern home and office accessories. The Blomus line includes modern desk, kitchen, table top, office, bath, garden, and home accessories. The Blomus BOLA Garden Globe is available with the following: Included Features:Stainless steel body.Options:Size: Large, Medium, Small, X Large, X Small, or XX Large. Shipping: This item usually ships within 2-3 business days. Dimensions: Small Option: Diameter 8 In. Medium Option: Diameter 10 In. Large Option: Diameter 12 In. X-Large Option: Diameter 15.7 In. X-Small Option: Diameter 6 In. XX-Large Option: Diameter 19.7 In.

Harry Garden Lamp by Carpyen $665.28 Take a seat or rest a glass on the indoor/outdoor Carpyen Harry Garden Lamp. Features almost 30' of cable that winds around an inner hidden base for use in any size garden. Makes a "glowing" impression at outdoor parties and events and stores easily when not in use. Designed by Porcuatro. Carpyen started in Spain in 1954 as a family enterprise and continues the intimate feel of their designs in their contemporary lighting pieces. Designers Antonio Carpintero, Encamacian and Roberto Capintero head the company as industrial talents and Pascual Salvador and Gabriel Teixido, among others, contribute to creating clean, modern lighting with a European edge. Located in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, Tango is a U.S. distributor of contemporary European lighting founded in 1997. Tango Lighting specializes in bringing top quality contemporary lighting from creative Spanish designers into the United States. The Carpyen Harry Garden Lamp is available with the following: Details:Drum-shaped White polyethylene shadeZinc plated metal base29.5' cableIP64 (damp rated for outdoor use)Designed by PorcuatroMade in SpainLighting: One 25 Watt 120 Volt Type E26 Medium Base Incandescent lamp (not included). Shipping: This item usually ships in 1-2 days. Dimensions: Fixture: Diameter 18.9 In., Height 13.3 In.

Garden Outdoor Flushmount by Maxim Lighting $135 The Maxim Lighting Garden Outdoor Flushmount reflects a taste for providing welcoming ambience and visual aesthetics with its bright, overall illumination and lovely details. The Garden Outdoor Flushmount features beautiful water glass, a warm finish, and Trisyn, a durable, non-corrosive material. Select styles are on Clearance. Limited quantities are available and are non-refundable. Maxim Lighting, headquartered in California, offers high-quality lighting fixtures in a variety of designs, finishes, and glass styles that complement contemporary and transitional interiors. The Maxim Lighting Garden Outdoor Flushmount is available with the following: Included Features:Water glass diffuser.Trisyn body.Oriental Bronze finish.UL Listed for wet locations.Lighting: Two 100 Watt 120 Volt Medium Base Incandescent lamps (not included). Shipping: This item usually ships within five business days. Dimensions: Fixture: Width 15 In., Height 6.5 In.

Garden Outdoor Pendant by Maxim Lighting $158.4 The Maxim Lighting Garden Outdoor Pendant neatly ties together cottage-garden whimsy with outdoor illumination needs and provides a layer of welcoming illumination. The Garden Outdoor Pendant features a water glass diffuser and a body made of Trisyn, a durable, non-corrosive material. Select styles are on Clearance. Limited quantities are available and are non-refundable. Maxim Lighting, headquartered in California, offers high-quality lighting fixtures in a variety of designs, finishes, and glass styles that complement contemporary and transitional interiors. The Maxim Lighting Garden Outdoor Pendant is available with the following: Included Features:Water glass diffuser.Trisyn body.Oriental Bronze finish.One ceiling canopy.120 in. field-adjustable chain.UL Listed for wet locations.Options:Size: Large (shown) or Small.Lighting:Large option utilizes three 60 Watt 120 Volt Candelabra Base Incandescent lamps (not included).Small option utilizes three 60 Watt 120 Volt Candelabra Base Incandescent lamps (not included).Shipping: This item usually ships within five business days. Dimensions: Small Fixture: Width 9.5 In., Height 21 In. Large Fixture: Width 11 In., Height 25 In. Chain: Length 120 In. Hanging Length - Small: Overall Length Adjustable to 141 In. Hanging Length - Large: Overall Length Adjustable to 145 In.