Post and Rail fencing
The most popular type of fence was the post and rail fence which used split posts and wooden rails. Much preparation work was needed prior to building. Logs were cut to length 6 feet (1.8metres) for the posts and 9 feet ( 2.7 metres) for the rails. They were then split into radial segments using steel wedges and may have required some shaping and trimming. The ends of the rails had to be shaped to fit the posts, probably with an adze. Posts were morticed (holes cut through them ) to support the rails. This was done with a mortice axe or an auger. Fences had mainly 2 or 3 rails depending on the type of animal to be restrained.
Post and rail fence at Coal Creek Heritage Village, Korumburra.
