mr Paul Werner
Historic Hedges in Vernacular Architecture
One of the landmarks in the history of mankind is the introduction of private land-ownership. Prior to that, land pertained to all members of a community and was re-distributed for farming purposes on a yearly basis. With the introduction of permanent residence, the concept of private land-ownership emerged. The owners marked their property through hedges rather than dwellings. Hedges thus protected dwellings, stables, stores and gardens. Common law prescribed serious punishment in case of a breach of property.
Farmers and shepherds soon created hedges of different shapes, often with an artistic touch. The importance of hedges can also be inferred from superstitions connected with them and tokens with which people accompanied their prayers or expressions of gratitude to their saints.
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