World’s Largest Weather Vane: world record set in Montague, Michigan
Montague, Michigan, United States--The steel weather vane in Montague, Michigan near White Lake, stands 48 feet tall, with an arrow that is a little longer than 26 feet topped with a schooner that measures 14′ 3″ by 11′ 7″, which sets the world record for being the World's Largest Weather Vane (World's Largest Weathervane), according to the WORLD RECORD ACADEMY.
"This unique Michigan monument can be found at the corner of Dowling St. and Water St. in front of local grocery store Montague Foods," the travelthemitten.com reports.
The functioning weathervane is 48 feet tall with an arrow 26 feet long. It is topped by the Ella Ellenwood, a lumbering Schooner that frequented White Lake transporting lumber from Montague to Milwaukee, Wisconsin.
Photos: mlive.com (1), White Lake Area Chamber of Commerce (2), City of Montague (3)
"A wind vane, weather vane, or weathercock is an instrument used for showing the direction of the wind. It is typically used as an architectural ornament to the highest point of a building. The word vane comes from the Old English word fana, meaning "flag".
"Although partly functional, wind vanes are generally decorative, often featuring the traditional cockerel design with letters indicating the points of the compass. Other common motifs include ships, arrows, and horses. Not all wind vanes have pointers. In a sufficiently strong wind, the head of the arrow or cockerel (or equivalent) will indicate the direction from which the wind is blowing.
"Wind vanes are also found on small wind turbines to keep the wind turbine pointing into the wind."(wikipedia)
"The Weather Vane is impressive and worth a stop if you're in the area. Just SE from the Vane (how convenient) we discovered a Dog & Suds Root Beer stand. Great place for a quick bite. Tables overlook the nearby lake and canal.
"This is the huge weathervane in Montague Michigan, right near Lake Michigan and White Lake. About two miles away is a very cool and redone original A&W drive in! Roadside Heaven!" (Roadside America)
"This giant weather instrument/art installation was created in 1984 and has held the record as the largest weather vane on the globe since its creation. The photo doesn't do this huge tower justice. This weather vane weighs in at over 2 tons. The arrow at the top is 26 feet long and is topped off with a boat," the
WFKR reports.
Montague is a city in Muskegon County in the U.S. state of Michigan. The population was 2,361 at the 2010 census. The city is located within Montague Township, but is politically independent.
Specifications of the World’s Largest Weathervane
Overall Height: 48 FT. 0 IN.
Arrow Length: 26 FT. 2 IN.
Overall Length of Schooner: 14 FT. 3 IN.
Height of Schooner: 11 FT. 7 IN.
Height of Directional Letters: 3 FT. 6 IN.
Diameter of Large Globes: 4 FT. 6 IN.
Diameter of Small Globes: 3 FT. 0 IN.
Weight of Weathervane: 3,500 LBS.
Weight of Arrow & Schooner: 800 LBS.
Black Paint: DUPONT IMRON
Gold Paint: AWL GRIP
(source: (The City of Montague)
Weathervane or Weather vane?
"The noun "weathervane" can be spelt either as a single word or in the opinion of some it can be written as two separate words.
"There is, however, some controversy over this: the single-word spelling is universally accepted however and therefore it is best to stick with this. The word refers to the device placed on top of buildings which shows where the wind is blowing from." (dicoz.co)
Testimonials from Trip Advisor
"Definitely have to stop and see if you’re in the area! Well maintained garden in a grocery store parking lot. Stop for ice cream at Twisters and enjoy the sites!"
"It's actually very impressive. A working weathervane in the heart of town, with a whole dedicate center to this awesome weathervane. It's worth the stop, it's worth the visit. and the best thing is, there's free no hassle parking at the grocery store parking lot."
"Impressive, no matter how many times you drive past it. Fun to watch on a windy day as it moves around. Plenty of parking in the area if you need a closer look."
"It’s an understated attraction in a very sleepy town, but it’s story is quite remarkable. If your a boater/sailor and nearby, it’s worth a visit."
"This is huge! Pretty well kept and lots to do within walking distance. Friendly town and easy to get around."
World's Largest Weather Vane
Address: 4560 Dowling St., Montague, MI
Directions: Downtown, along the waterfront, at Dowling and Water Sts.
Phone: 231-894-8265
Admission: Free
email:
cityofmontague[at]aol.com
Related world records:
