Product Description

Written in 1887, this book is both an instructional work--for the construction of a wide variety of fences, gates, and bridges--as well as a testament to American practicality. The fence section presents a wealth of information on different fences, including the first fences used by settlers in America, the zigzag fence, and sod and stone fences. It also delves into the barbed-wire fence, the cheap and portable fence that is notable for conserving timber. The section on gates includes the making and setting of posts, as well as the construction and installation of gates. There are gates for all regions and needs, including a clever gate for snowy weather that lifts vertically, thanks to a pulley system. Finally, this charming volume provides an information-packed section on bridges, including a full round of bridges for gullies and culverts, as well as ornamental bridges for the garden. Filled with over three hundred illustrations representing almost every fence, gate, and bri! dge discussed, this classic manual belongs on the shelf alongside The Homestead Builder, Farm Conveniences, Handy Farm Devices, and Farm Appliances. --This text refers to the Paperback edition.

Product Details

• Amazon Sales Rank: #495002 in Books
• Published on: 2008-08
• Original language: English
• Number of items: 1
• Binding: Paperback
• 186 pages

From Library Journal
These facsimiles of the original 1900 editions present detailed instructions for building out of wood just about anything that would be useful on a farm. Though dated, the plans and materials are simple, and many of the items could still be of great use to homeowners. These volumes are also great pieces of Americana.
Copyright 1999 Reed Business Information, Inc.

From Scientific American
Putting up fences becomes less difficult, if one understands the principles and procedures, as explained in this book, first published in 1887. The illustrations aid in comprehension. Included are primitive fences, stone and sod fences, board fences, picket fences, barbed wire fence and many other fence types and appurtenances.

Review
Putting up fences becomes less difficult, if one understands the principles as explained in this book, first published in 1887 -- Frank Good, The Wichita Eagle

Customer Reviews

This Book can Build a Relationship
We do a lot of family stuff. We read together, hike, vacation; we even eat our meals together. But being a close emotional foursome [mom, dad, son age 12 and daughter age 10] we are always looking for a new way to share our time.

Pick up this book and pick a project. We started with a new gate to the pool but decided it was too easy. What is great about this book is that it not only gives great construction guidelines it is a building block (no pun intended) to other projects.

We finally decided to build a bridge across Ash Brook which passes through our property about 100 yards behind the house. At first we thought we could span 30 feet, but later decided 15 was a better idea. Well, the bridge in the book and our final product did not resemble each other. Who cares. The basics were supplied and we went our own way.

Great ideas and pictures. Use it as a guide or a technical manual. It doesn't matter. Everything works.

Really comes in handy
We always need some type of enclosure on our organic dairy farm but didn't always have the skills needed to build or fix the necessary items. This book has been invaluable, at least for ideas. Our carpentry skills are improving. Would be very helpful no matter where you live