The American Dream: a house, a family, and a white picket fence.
When we think of a classic American household, mainly people think of a nice home with 2.5 kids, maybe a family dog, and always a white picket fence out front. But have you ever thought about what exactly a picket fence is, where it comes from or why it became so popular for American families?
History
The word “picket” comes from the French verb “piquer,” meaning “to pierce,” hence the pointed shape of the fence. White picket fencing installations have been around since the early colonial days in American history, as they needed sturdy yet simple fence designs.
Status Of The White Picket Fence
The white picket fence has iconic status in America, symbolizing the ideal middle-class suburban life, with a family and children, large house, and peaceful living. This stems from the fact that houses in quiet, middle-class neighborhoods often have gardens enclosed by picket fences. Over time, the picket fence became synonymous with the “American dream,” as many were inspired to reach the level of happiness and wealth that they could afford the same lifestyle as those with picket fences.
Picket Fences Today
Today, picket fences are not as associated with the “American dream,” since that idea has changed drastically through the years. Now, picket fences are simply seen as what they are, instead of a larger symbol. The fence is used in both front and backyards and is a decorative way to keep pets and children safe without blocking the view. Traditionally, picket fences were made out of wood and painted white, but now they are also widely available in polyvinyl chloride.
Benefits Of A Picket Fence
As the look of a picket fence has been appreciated throughout history, the style of the fence has stood the test of time and still looks great today. Picket fences are mainly used in the countryside, but the fence will fit in in almost any area. They are extremely strong and durable and can withstand storms and protect your home. If you are building a picket fence, be sure to use high-quality wood to ensure that your fence will last a long time.
Hercules Fence for All of Your Residential Fence Needs
When you are ready for a residential or commercial fence that will meet the security and aesthetic needs of your family or business, trust the experts at Hercules Fence. For more information and to learn how we can meet your custom fencing needs, contact Hercules Fence online or give us a call at 800-395-9597. We will ensure your investment serves your family for years to come! For updates and to see projects we’re working on, visit us on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, YouTube, Google+, and Pinterest.
