October Fall Classic
Lot 1269a:
Description
This is a remarkable example of an early 20th-century cast iron windmill weight manufactured by Breyer Bros. Whiting & Co. of Waupun, Wisconsin. The specific patent date of November 17, 1908, dates this piece perfectly within the golden age of American farm windmills. These weights were essential components, mounted on the tail vane assembly to counterbalance the wheel, ensuring the vane could properly swing the wheel out of the wind to stop the mill. The raised lettering proudly identifies the manufacturer and origin. The back of the two-part assembly features a bold, raised “5,” likely indicating a specific weight class, size, or model number necessary for a particular mill head. The item consists of two heavy cast iron halves bolted together and is currently presented on a weathered wooden base, likely for display. The overall condition is good for a piece of heavy outdoor equipment, showing the rugged patina of age. It has extensive surface rust, pitting, and the mottled grey/dark finish you’d expect after a century of exposure. While the original assembly hardware appears mostly present, there is one modern hexagonal bolt visible at the top mounting it to a wooden plank base. H 6.5″, W 8″, D 1.5′. See photos.
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