Spanning more than 350 pages and filled with more than 575 color photos, “Lightning Rod Balls – The Complete Guide” by Phil Steiner and Randy Parish is an important tool for collectors as well as history lovers. Included in the softcover book are price trends, rarity guide, terminology, ball/pendant colors, examples and much more. According to the dedication page, the book, “was written for the novice enthusiast of lightning rod collectibles with the goal of providing an introduction to the amazing variety of colorful and beautiful glass ornaments that make up this hobby.
” Benjamin Franklin, one of our nation’s founding fathers, was also a celebrated scientist, and is credited with the invention of the lightning rod in the 18th century. In the early days, farmers used weathervanes and lightning rods outside as functional pieces. Adding the lightning rod balls brought some beauty to their surroundings, according to the book.
The book details the various styles of lightning rod balls, many of which are quite beautiful – milk glass, colored glass, and some interesting moldings as well. This reporter has seen these pieces at sales and flea markets but wasn’t sure what they were used for. After reading through this book, I confess to having gleaned a better understanding of these delightful, colorful pieces.
The vibrant colors used in the lightning rod balls stand out –cobalt blue, ruby red and amethyst, to name just a few. In addition to using the glass or porcelain balls on a lightning rod, they were used on weathervanes as well. Many have found new life as lamps as well.
The comprehensive book presents information on various manufacturers of lightning rod balls such as Diddie Blitzen, Fenton, Harger, Burkett Lightning Rod Co., and many, many more. I personally enjoyed reading through the information provided and looking through the beautiful pictures featured throughout the book.
The last several pages (pp. 334 to 355) of the book feature a spreadsheet for collectors to itemize each of their lightning rod balls and other pieces. Included in the spreadsheet are values for each item which is an added bonus for serious collectors, traders and buyers of these items.
In addition to the comprehensive listings and pictures, those looking to start a collection and those who have already begun a collection, will enjoy and use this book –as both a guide and a reference work. Very simply, it is a marvelous tool devoted to lightning rod balls –their manufacturing and marketing and current collecting trends. “Lightning Rod Balls – The Complete Guide” is published by Phil Steiner and Randy Parish, copyright 2024 ISBN: 979-8-218-43473-1; printed by Central Printing, Delavan, Wisconsin and is priced at $75.
With a minimum order of 6 issues, the price is $60. To order a copy, contact Randy Parish at [email protected] or Phil Steiner at (847) 770-3231.
Orders by mail can be sent to: Phil Steiner 141 Woodsmill Boulevard, Cocoa, Florida 32926..
