Turnpike Fence

Set 53015 without its original box. In 18th-century America, the poor road network was a major problem. State and local governments had small bureaucracies and limited budgets, meaning the public sector was unable to take any significant action. Out of necessity, enterprising private individuals founded road-building companies to construct and maintain these vital transport arteries. The investment came from local landowners, farmers and traders, who recognised the convenience, increased trade and development that the roads would bring. Many were already familiar with the use of private toll bridges, where, by their very nature, toll evasion was virtually impossible ? a serious problem for toll roads. The solution lay in the venerable barrier fences. Their ingenious design and height of 4 to 6 feet deterred all but the most determined fare-dodgers.