Stone Walls

The images are sharper if you click on them. I posted four years ago why New Hampshire stone walls were reported to be 4-5 feet high in the past, but are less than half that now. I didn't post examples.  In the early 1800s everything got stone-fenced in VT, NH, and Maine, because of sheep and wool.  Also true, though less so, in MA and CT. The fences were kept in some repair after everyone started moving to Ohio and Indiana mid-century, because there was still some advantage in having hay fields, pasturage, and orchards kept separate because of cows and horses.  But as high fences were not longer needed, they went into disrepair.

This is what a lot of stone walls in New England look like now, whether by the side of the road or deep in the forest. They are still attractive in their own way, though less functional.

This one is a little better. Someone has taken care to pile things back up and make it look attractive.

A near neighbor has started to put in some real effort, recreated something like an authentic wall from almost 200 years ago, when sheep were still sheep and ruled the economy.

Finally, we have someone who has gone full-on for authenticity. He likely is a stone builder himself or hired a professional. As he is right next door to the previous farm, I will guess that one or both are builders and related.

For those nearby who want to have a look, these are all on Beard Rd in New Boston.