[TheForge] Outdoor Stairs/steps railing project

[Jonathan Barnhart]

I'm trying to put together a set of rails for new set of stone steps that a local family just had installed.  The house was built in 1904 and the owners would like to have a set of all steel railings.  Their intent is to have something simple yet elegant that will go with the older look of the house.  To that end I'm looking for some railings from the time period to get me started in the right direction.  So, if anyone can point me to some sources (especially the free internet variety)  I'd appreciate it.  Also any tips that anyone could give me for building and finishing the rails would be great as well (mainly because up until now my work has been smaller decorative pieces, jewelry, tools, and knives/No architectural pieces).