Ever Wondered Where Barbed Wire Came From?

 In Blog

 From all of us at Boundary Fence and Supply Company, we want to wish you a very Happy New Year.

Life in the American West was reshaped by a series of patents for a simple tool – barbed wire – that helped ranchers tame the land.

from: wikipedia

Image source: wikipedia

 

Before barbed wire

The lack of effective fencing limited farming and ranching practices, and the number of people who could settle in an area. The new fencing changed the West from vast and undefined prairies/plains to a land of farming, and widespread settlement.

Without fencing, livestock grazed freely, competing for fodder and water. Where working farms did exist, most property was unfenced and open to foraging by roaming cattle and sheep.

 

The first wire fences

The first fences consisted of only one strand of wire usually broken by the weight of cattle pressing against it.

From: wikipedia

Image source: wikipedia

Michael Kelly made a significant improvement to wire fencing, he twisted two wires together to form a cable for barbs – the first of its kind. Known as the “thorny fence,” Michael Kelly’s double-strand design made fences stronger, and the painful barbs made cattle keep their distance.

Later Joseph Glidden invented a method for locking the barbs in place, and invented the machinery to mass-produce the wire (patent issued in 1874). Today, it remains the most familiar style of barbed wire.

 

Warfare & Security

After its invention, barbed wire was widely used during wars, to protect people and property from unwanted intrusion. Military usage of barbed wire formally dates to 1888, when British military manuals first encouraged its use. Even now, barbed wire is widely used to protect and safeguard military installation, to establish territorial boundaries, and for prisoner confinement. Used on construction and storage sites and around warehouses, barbed wire protects supplies and persons and keeps out unwanted intruders.

Source:  About.com

 

Boundary Fence and Supply CompanyCantilever Gate

We know the best materials for fencing and are experts in our field. Established in 1973, Boundary Fence & Supply Company is still owned and operated by Darrell and Kathi Unruh. With over 41 years of experience in Denver and the surrounding areas, our customers can depend on quality. We have set the standard in residential, commercial, and industrial fencing. Because we are family owned and operated, we take pride in the quality of our products and in the service we provide our customers. Our company is licensed and insured. In addition, all city permits are obtained, when necessary, by our company. Boundary Fence also takes care of all public utility locates. This saves you precious time and you can focus on what’s important to you and trust us to do the work right.

Your business is important to us! Let our expert, professional sales staff provide you with a free fence estimate. Please feel free to contact us, so we can assist you regarding all your fencing needs!

Happy New Year!!

 

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