Old Thomas

Old Thomas (Estonian: Vana Toomas) is one of the symbols and guardians of Tallinn (Reval), the capital of Estonia.

[1] A weather vane, the figure of an old warrior called Old Thomas was put on top of the spire of Tallinn Town Hall in 1530.

According to the legend, the model for the weather vane was a peasant boy from the countryside who excelled at the springtime contests involving firing crossbow bolts at a painted wooden parrot on top of a pole, organized by, and for, Tallinn's wealthy citizenry.

Unable to receive a prize because of his low-born status, Thomas was rewarded with the job of town guard for life.

Once the weather vane was erected over the town square, parents would tell the children that Old Thomas was watching how they behave and would leave candy under their pillow for good behavior.