Split rail fences are a popular tradition in both town and country. At last a well-known builder of rail fences reveals some of his trade secrets.

In text and pictures, he takes us through the whole process: cutting suitable fence-posts and rails; splitting the rails; setting up the posts; and tying the rails in. However, that is not the end of the job.

Read on to learn how to maintain the fence so that it lasts, if not for ever, at least much longer than an ordinary fence. Skigard is not just the practical handbook of a traditional craft. It is also tells the history of how split rail fences evolved to their present forms, and illustrates this exciting story with both new and old photographs.