Of course I feel the need to share with you the fact that barbed wire was in vented in the USA in 1868 and that there is a museum dedicated to preserving the history of barbed wire
It was controversial stuff
When livestock encountered barbed wire for the first time, it was usually a painful experience. The injuries provided sufficient reason for the public to protest its use. Religious groups called it “the work of the devil,” or “The Devil’s Rope” and demanded removal.
Clumps of cow hair
You can read all about it if you so wish, in a book called (not surprisingly) The Devils Rope by Allen Krell: although the review in the Independent Newspaper, would suggest that a whole books worth of barb wire facts and history might be stretching the wire a little too far.
The Devil’s Rope does treat us to fascinating moments. But his (Krell’s) mission– to bulk up barbed wire’s status as a cultural icon – is rather like the prairies before its arrival: endless and beyond organisation.
A breaking wave of frosted grass
Cross here
Tufts of lambs wool, are available in small medium and large
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Watching the rhythm of rural life, from the top of a hill in northern England.
Having spent most of my life avoiding writing, I now need to do it!
I am no domestic goddess, but if I were expecting visitors to my home, I would whisk round with the duster and plump up the cushions and generally make the place look presentable. I hope that by putting my words where others may see them it will encourage me to ‘tidy up and push the Hoover around’ my writing.
On the other hand I may just be adding to the compost heap. Only time will tell!
Pull up a chair, sit yourself down, I’ll put the kettle on.
January 3, 2009 at 9:28 pm
Now who would have thought barbed wire could be so interesting? I’m not sure about filing a book, though. 🙂 Wonderful images – I love the last one.
January 4, 2009 at 8:54 am
I love these photographs, especially the second one. Somehow frost makes everything look magical. I know some people can’t stand barbed wire, but from my experience it doesn’t seem to be a huge hazard for most animals. Some animals will get themselves hurt no matter if you wrapped them in bubble wrap, and rubber.
January 4, 2009 at 9:26 am
Something we take for granted as part of country life, and yet what an interesting history ~ as mentioned above, frost does add magic and your photos are outstanding (in the field) ~ sorry, that was a joke that just slipped out ;)~ Your last photo with the small, medium and large brought a big smile ~ good observation!
January 4, 2009 at 7:10 pm
Interesting post and links, with terrific photos! I particularly like the last but one image. xx
January 4, 2009 at 7:35 pm
Well ive lost count of how many times ive had to climb over the stuff. Its snagged me a few times as well.
I think the really old stuff used to go rusty but not nowadays.
Ive noticed its being used moe and more over damaged stone walls where the wall has fell down. The farmers use posts and barbed wire instead of repairing the walls
Must be a lot cheaper than re buildng the walls uphill.
January 4, 2009 at 9:07 pm
Lovely frost photos, and interesting post. I can imagine how could your camera and fingers must have been after some time out there.
January 5, 2009 at 9:55 am
And toes!! and how uncomfortable is it when your socks fall down inside your Wellington boots
January 6, 2009 at 12:52 am
I see barbed wire all the time here in Kansas and never heard it called The Devil’s Rope. You bet I will use that phrase now. Thanks for sharing.
January 6, 2009 at 3:56 am
I absolutely LOVE your photos! And what beautiful frosty mornings. I know the cold gets old very quickly, but it does afford some lovely moments. Thanks again for sharing them.
January 6, 2009 at 5:34 pm
I’m sure I wouldn’t be so keen to go out with the camera if it were wet and windy!!
December 7, 2009 at 6:16 pm
I’m doin a History day project on barbed wire i need info…….
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