10: VERY RARE W.C. SHINN BEAVER LIGHTNING ROD WEATHER VANE

The full-bodied zinc figure of a beaver on log with maple leaf and embossed letters W C S for the W.C. Shinn Company of Lincoln, Nebraska. Beginning some time around 1905, William C. Shinn was manufacturing lightning rods and related items like X-ray machines and electrical apparatus. In 1906 he authored The Origin of Lightning and the Philosophy of the Lightning Rod. A fascination with electricity seems obvious. By 1912 he had expanded operations to Minneapolis and then Ontario, Canada (which could explain the motif of this vane) and adopted the company slogan 'Lightning Can't Strike if Shinn Gets There First.' A few years later he patented a telescoping ladder to 'to aid in the installation of lightning rods.' His operations helped make Lincoln one f the largest manufacturers of lightning rods in the US by 1917. Lightning rod balls by Shinn are popular among collectors. But of all his accomplishments, it may be that Shinn's lightning rod weather vane with zinc figure of a beaver wasn't one of his best sellers. This figure is extremely rare and very few are known to exist.
Measures 8.5 x 29.5 x 1.5 inches.
Very good condition, noting the remains of a gilt finish, no issues of damage or repair. The tail and the leaf are 100% intact, original and untouched, free from damage or repair.
Provenance: The Jerry and Cathy Mueller Collection, Sioux City, Iowa
$500 - $1,500