Product Description It is authoritatively stated that the building and maintenance of the farm fences in the United States have cost more than the construction of the farm buildings. Be this as it may, wide large numbers of works have been written upon rural architecture we believe this is the first publication specially devoted to Fences, Gates and Bridges. It aims to be a practical work, showing the "evolution" of the fence from the road barrier of logs, brush or sods to the latest improved forms of barbed mire. The numerous illustrations are mainly representations of fences, gates, etc. , in actual use. The chapter on fence law is necessarily condensed. The various judicial decisions upon the subject alone would fill a large volume. This little work, the first and only one of its character, is given to the public in the confident hope that it will prove specially useful to farmers and village residents. Fences, Gates and Bridges was originally published in 1901. 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 "A practical manual of fencing for every home and farm purpose, with 295 illustrations! A facsimile reprint of an earlier masterwork on the subject, including wickets, gates, stiles, hedges, small bridges & culverts. " -- Publishers Weekly From the Publisher Fences, Gates and Bridges was originally published in 1901. From the Back Cover Fences, Gates, & Bridges is an instruction guide to the best methods of building an incredible variety of these devices for all regions and weather conditions. Written in 1900, this book is a functional pocket manual as well as a testament to American ingenuity, born out of necessity and practicality. The section on fences boasts an impressive medley of materials and designs, including the zigzag fence, the cheap and portable barbed-wire fence, and a sampling of sod and stone fences. And what is a fence without a gate? The second segment of the book includes instruction on the making and setting of posts, as well as the construction and installation of swinging gates, sliding gates, pulley gates, and more. The third and final section consists of information on a number of bridges, depicting a wide selection of them designed for crossing gullies and culverts, as well as ornamental brides for gardens and walkways. (4 1/2 X 7 1/4, 192 pages, illustrations) About the Author George A. Martin was author and editor of Fences, Gates, and Bridges; Farm Appliances; and Farm Conveniences.