Introduction
Barbed Wire has been an integral and important part of the history of
the west. It has provided many functions, which include physical
barriers, historical information, and artistic interests. Over the
years, wire has evolved from a single type to a wide variety of patents
and variations.
Barriers
Barbed wire was originally developed to allow farmers and ranchers an
opportunity to divide their ranges into smaller pastures for controlled
grazing and protecting their crops. As plots of land were fenced and
barriers, created free range for grazing and cattle drives became
extinct. Barriers were also created during wars with entanglement wire
in attempt to stop the enemy. As recently as the Viet Nam war, new
wires were being manufactured to assist in the soldiers' defense. Today
this same type of wire is used on prisons and businesses to prevent
individuals from exiting institutions or entering non-public areas.
This type of wire was used to divide nations after World War II.
History
Beyond the changes in the western land development, wire has also
provided an opportunity to research patent information. This
information leads an individual to develop a geographical sense of
where wire was first produced and the number of wires that have been
manufactured over the years. Different types of wire were adaptable for
unique locations and often patentees used a new style of wire as their
"signature." Collecting wire introduces many challenges and
opportunities to learn more about the industry of barbed wire.
Art Form
Many wires are quite unique in purpose and style. There are barbs that
resemble spurs, stars with different numbers of points, flat plates
with corners bent, and a variety of others. Barbed wire has been used
in a variety of sculptures and designs. There are large wire balls,
longhorn cattle, and cacti, which are more solid, stand-alone
creations. There are also many shapes of states, boots, wire plaques
and symbols made from barbed wire that are available for decorative
purposes. Jewelry is yet another very creative use of wire.
Conclusion
Learning about barbed wire allows you to study the transition of our
country and the world through a variety of changes. The opportunity to
study barbed wire in depth creates an awareness of its uses and the
availability of the unique kinds of wires. Being an involved collector
provides additional access to many knowledgeable individuals, which
with their special expertise, will add to your information bank.