Fences like Abe made still grace homes today By Maureen Gilmer, The Cincinnati Post
The traditional rail was split from a log cut 'three ax handles' long, which is about 11 feet. First the bark was peeled, itself an arduous task using wedges made of ironwood or another hardwood instead of the steel. A typical rail was from 4 to 5 inches square or triangular, depending on the size of the log.
Old fences began by one's laying the first rail right on the ground with a second set at angles for the joint. More rails were stacked this way until the fence was about eight rails high. That was the maximum height for freestanding fences. More height required two stabilizing posts or other reinforcement.