Lightning Rod Replacement Parts, Antique & Contemporary

Lightning Rods have been an important part of the construction of structures ranging from barns and sheds to homes and businesses for hundreds of years. Consequently, Lightning Rod Collectibles have become some of the most sought-after items in the country.

Many of these obscure articles of early Americana are available on the pages below as well as enhancements for functioning contemporary lightning protection systems. Click the links below to learn more about available components for both Antique (display only) and Contemporary (functioning) lightning rod systems.

From about 1850 to early in the twentieth century, salesmen traveled the country in search of homes, farms, and businesses to sell and install lightning protection systems. Their vehicles were painted with signs declaring the nature of their wares and they would hand out household items such as potato peelers and rulers marked with the brand name that they represented. They would demonstrate lightning strike simulations in prospective customers’ living rooms! These machines would crackle and snap an arc of electricity toward a miniature diorama of buildings, animals, and people! I’m sure you can imagine that the demonstrations were quite effective.

The companies that the salesmen represented went to great lengths to ensure that their salesmen would cinch the sale. They were outfitted with slick sample cases showcasing the rods, couplings, and cable. They would carry examples of all the wonderful options that were available to dress up their lightning protection systems.

The attractive dressings included ornamental tips (points), weathervane arrows, and decorative glass balls. The hardware was sold as “scientifically engineered” and the company owners were titled “Professor”. This approach was designed to make the buyer feel safe in his purchase. Eventually, The Great Depression ended the travels of these salesmen and the companies that backed them.

Today, the hardware and ornaments they peddled are highly sought-after by a growing number of collectors worldwide. Prices are still very reasonable but rising. Ferro Weathervanes occasionally obtains rare pieces and offers them for sale on our website. If you’re a collector, start or enhance your collection with these choice pieces!

We also offer a wide array of functional parts for contemporary lightning protection systems. Enjoy!