Limestone Fenceposts

Limestone fenceposts are a unique feature seen primarily in rural north-central Kansas.  We saw them while driving US highway 281.

Early settlers needed a way to fence in their land, to protect it from roaming herds of buffalo.  However, the plains were nearly treeless, so wooden posts could not be used.  A layer of stone was located (the topmost layer of the Greenhorn Limestone formation) that was accessible to quarry. The stone could be drilled and split into post-like structures. It was not easy work, and the posts were heavy...at least 250 pounds each. 

Between 1884 and 1920 miles of these stone posts were cut and placed.  They are still visible today.