What did homesteaders use to prevent cattle from accessing the previously open range?

Homesteaders utilized barbed wire as an effective means to prevent cattle from accessing the previously open range. The introduction of barbed wire in the late 19th century revolutionized farming and ranching practices. It allowed settlers to create enclosures for their crops, livestock, and property in an era when the open range was gradually being transformed by agricultural expansion and increased land ownership.

Barbed wire was particularly important because it was relatively inexpensive and easy to install compared to other fencing options. Its sharp barbs discouraged cattle from trying to break through, making it an efficient barrier against wandering livestock. This became crucial as ranchers and homesteaders sought to protect their investments and manage their lands more effectively amidst the changing landscape of the American West, marked by increased settlement and competition over land.

While wooden fences and metal gates were also used, they were often more costly and less practical over large areas. Ranch borders typically referred to ownership lines but did not serve as an immediate deterrent to cattle access. Barbed wire thus stands out as the primary tool for homesteaders in this context.