An American Innovation
The origins of split rail fencing go back to America’s first settlers. Used to define boundaries and secure livestock and property with materials that were readily available.
Trees, cleared to make space for growing crops and for animal grazing, were used for structures, fences, furniture, etc. Cedar was and is still preferred for rail fences because of its straight grain which makes splitting logs length wise easier. Cedar’s natural resistance to pests and decay add to its durability and popularity.
Early fences had rails stacked and staggered. This zig-zag design was quick to build, easy to adapt to changing landscapes and terrain, and didn’t require digging post holes. Advances in tools and technologies led to designs more commonly used today with mortise and tenon joints.
Their use was so abundant, there were millions of miles of rail fences covering America’s landscape by the late 1800s.
Tahoe Fence completed this cedar, split rail in Fallon (Churchill County.) Our crews were able to follow the sidewalk as it curved around the property. And the front entry has compelling curb appeal with the addition of an ornamental steel gate. For comparison, we included a picture of an early, settler-style rail fence we took while visiting the historic area around Salem College in Winston Salem, North Carolina.
Let us know what you think.
Pictured: Tahoe Fence Cedar Split Rail in Fallon (Churchill County.) 2026
