An antique copper weathervane stolen from a Vermont railway station 40 years ago has been found and returned to the state. The weathervane, depicting a steam locomotive and coal tender, was made in 1910 by W.A. Snow Iron Works Inc. It was originally located on top of the White River Junction station in Hartford before it was taken on November 3, 1983. Recently, the stolen weathervane was consigned to New York auction house Sotheby’s, where it was identified as stolen by the Arts Loss Register. Sotheby’s then worked with the transportation agency and the state to return the artifact to Vermont.
The state currently owns the White River Junction station, making the return of the weathervane especially significant. Sotheby’s covered the $2,300 cost to ship the weathervane back to Vermont, facilitating its return to its rightful home. The transportation agency expressed their delight in having the historic and artistic piece returned, with their historic preservation officer, Judith Ehrlich, stating that they are working with the state curator to find the perfect location for the weathervane to be displayed and enjoyed once again.
The 1910 weathervane is a valuable piece of art that holds historical significance for Vermont. Its theft 40 years ago was a loss for the state, and its recovery marks the return of a cherished artifact to its home. The collaboration between Arts Loss Register, Sotheby’s, and the state transportation agency has resulted in the successful return of the weathervane, showcasing the importance of tracking and recovering stolen or lost artworks, antiques, and collectibles.
The weathervane’s intricate design, depicting a steam locomotive and coal tender, showcases the craftsmanship of W.A. Snow Iron Works Inc. and reflects the era in which it was created. Its return to Vermont is a testament to the efforts of those involved in identifying and retrieving stolen cultural artifacts. The transportation agency’s commitment to finding a suitable location for the weathervane highlights their dedication to preserving and displaying historical pieces for the public to enjoy.
The collaboration between the Arts Loss Register, Sotheby’s, and the state transportation agency demonstrates the importance of tracking and recovering stolen artworks. The return of the weathervane to Vermont serves as a reminder of the value of preserving historical artifacts and the efforts that go into ensuring their safe return. The weathervane’s return to its home in Vermont is a victory for those who work to protect and preserve cultural heritage, allowing future generations to appreciate and learn from these significant pieces of history.
The successful return of the stolen weathervane to Vermont highlights the importance of collaboration between organizations dedicated to protecting cultural heritage. The weathervane’s journey from being stolen 40 years ago to its return to the state showcases the dedication of those involved in identifying, recovering, and returning stolen artifacts. The transportation agency’s commitment to finding a suitable location for the weathervane emphasizes their dedication to preserving and showcasing historical pieces for the public to enjoy once again.
