Barbed wire fences have developed over the past two centuries into today’s high-security features.
Barbed wire on fences may seem like an extra feature that may or may not be necessary. While it isn’t necessary for residential properties, barbed wire fencing is a standard type of high security fencing today in many situations. Where does barbed wire come from? Here, we shall discuss the brief history of barbed wire fences and show how Hercules Fence supplies many clients with the best barbed wire fencing today.
The Great Plains of the 1800s
When Americans first ventured onto the Great Plains in the 1800s, they herded cattle on the open plains with the Native Americans. There were very few trees, and lumber was expensive. It would have been difficult to build wood fencing to contain livestock. Wire fences were affordable, but cattle could break them by leaning against them.
Michael Kelly invented the first barbed wire in 1868, and various inventors made designs improving on the first. Joseph Glidden of De Kalb, Illinois, came out as the winner of the best patented design overall for its simple and effective construction in 1874.
In the meantime, more fenced-off properties caused free-range cattle herding to dwindle to extinction and native tribes to seek asylum on reservations. By the early 1900s, ranchers generally used barbed wire to secure their cattle.
Military Defenses
The invention of barbed wire was not kept to the American Plains, however. In 1888, the British began using barbed wire for military purposes. Over the decades, including in World War I, this affordable, thorny fence was useful for defending military camps and as a military weapon.
Numerous Applications Today
Barbed wire fences and chain-link fences topped with barbed wire have become standard for many applications.
- Government and military properties: Government and military facilities with confidential information and operations need the best security possible against invaders.
- Hazardous areas: Airports, construction sites, railways, and other public areas with many industrial moving parts need security fencing to protect potential trespassers from danger.
- Agriculture: Barbed wire fencing is still applicable today for containing livestock and crops. The thorny wires prevent cattle or other livestock from leaning against them and destroying them, or wildlife from harming animals or crops.
Find Your Perfect Fence With Help from Hercules Fence Newport News
Hercules Fence has experience with nearly every type of residential and commercial fencing material imaginable, from wood and aluminum to chain link, vinyl, steel, and even temporary fencing. We have developed a reputation for quality work and fair, competitive prices. Hercules Fence is ready to serve you from six convenient locations. We have offices in Manassas, Richmond, Newport News, Norfolk, Virginia, Maryland, and North Carolina.
If you have any questions about finding your dream fence or maintenance, contact Hercules Fence today by calling (757) 316-3600 or visiting FencesNewportNews.com for a free quote!
