What is this metal star and what is its purpose?This star and several others are located on the exterior of the old Selma Marble and Granite building. They were made in Selma a long time ago.
Hint: It's not a Christmas decoration!
Congratulations to Dan of McKinney, Texas, Daily Photo! He got the answer, which can be found here.
12 comments:
(scratching my head here) . . . does this have something to do with the Civil War?
I think these are decorative caps to bolts that secure metal reinforcing bars to the wall.
Hi Annie,
That's a good thought, but this star doesn't have anything to do with the Civil War. However, the building where it was manufactured is believed to have been built shortly after the Civil War. Some say the building may even have been left standing after the Battle of Selma, but so far, that hasn't been documented.
Well, Dan, you are right! How'd you know that? It's a decorative star anchor used as a tie-rod to help secure the building. A rod attaches to the anchor to stabilize the walls, especially in brick buildings that have high walls. This anchor was made at what is now known as The Foundry. The wooden pattern for it is on display at the Old Depot Museum.
I had to consult the museum curators and local architectural historians for help on this one!
Nice addition to a plain old wall. I knew the answer too, honest I did! :)
I see quite a few of those on the old buildings in Terrell.
Dan's a smart guy! :) And, I think the star is a very pretty accent, too.
We have a building on main street here that have some of those, too. I have no Idea why and don't know if anyone else knows...
Thanks for the comment, Rambling. It's lovely to see this star and to know that it is both functional and pretty. Thanks for the lesson.
Great photo, I never would have guessed the star's purpose!
What an interesting item. I'd not have known.
And the bricks make a lovely part of the photo, too.
Mari-Nanci
very cool. love these little things around town.
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