Chain Link: Tried and True Since 1844

Ah, the humble chain link fence. Reliable and utilitarian, it’s a ubiquitous sight across the nation, whether along country roads, surrounding suburban yards, or protecting urban gardens. Would it surprise you to know that the chain link fence has been around since before the Civil War? Let’s take a look at the history of this fence so many of us take for granted.

In 1844, a British man named Charles Barnard had an idea to create sections of fencing using a cloth weaving machine. He switched out the thread for some steel wire, and a new industry was born. With Barnard’s innovation, long stretches of fencing could be produced quickly and easily, and soon, metal fencing became popular throughout England.

It didn’t make it into the United States’ manufacturing community until almost 50 years after its invention. In 1891, a New Jersey business known as the Anchor Post Fence Co bought the rights to the weaving machine, becoming the first company to manufacture chain link fences in the United States. It caught on fairly quickly, because it’s affordable, durable, lightweight, easy to install, and versatile enough to use in a host of applications.

Chain link really rose to prominence in London during World War II. At that point, many iron and steel fences that had surrounded parks were taken down and used for scrap materials. In the United States, modern homeowners are often surprised to learn that their chain link fences are considered historic and cannot be taken down without permission from historic preservation authorities.

Today, the chain link fence is still immensely popular, and in fact, half of the fences sold in the United States are made of chain link. Why is it still such a widespread choice?

• Chain link provides high security and visibility.
• This kind of fence is versatile and can be customized to meet a wide variety of needs.
• Chain link fences can easily be customized to beef up security or increase your level of privacy.
• Chain link fencing is affordable, and yet highly effective in protecting property and containing pets or livestock.
• Chain link fences are perfect for gardens, because they can keep out unwanted animals while providing a trellis-like surface for plants to climb.

If you’re interested in installing a new chain link fence, you can trust A-1 Fence to get the job done right and stand behind our work. We’re a locally owned and operated company with more than 40 years of experience, committed to providing fast and efficient work with a personalized feel. We’re fully licensed, bonded, and insured, and are proud of our reputation for quality work. For more information or a free estimate, contact us through our website or call 832-962-4765.