NEW ORLEANS (WGNO) — Darryl Reeves is a New Orleans blacksmith and welder, and he’s sparking that Disney magic. Disney wanted Darryl to make a weathervane and lightning rod for the new ride, “Tiana’s Bayou Adventure” at both Disney World and Disneyland.
“Even though it is a pretty piece of art, it has a purpose. It is an inch and quarter solid round with North, South, East and West on it,” Reeves said.
The lightning rod he created is about five-foot tall and 60 pounds.
“Copper wire that goes to the ground that’s to protect the attraction during a lightning storm,” he said.
He’s been restoring iron work on furniture, fences and buildings for half a century. Iron that dates back to the early 1700s.
He’s thrilled to be making Disney history.
“You can’t help but feel pride out of that. It is a piece of a lifetime. It will be out there long after I’m around,” Reeves said.
Reeves said he feels the weather vane and lightning rod truly represent Princess Tiana.
“I put a fern on top, that shows longevity and not giving up. That shows endurance, that’s my girl, Princess Tiana,” he said.
A weathervane, weathering any storm. Built tough like Tiana.
“Tiana’s Bayou Adventure” is set to open on June 28.
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