The Fence Post

Rivers, stone fences, and the brick fortress

We took the train to Albi, an hour northeast of Toulouse. We passed miles and miles of one of my favorite fences, primarily green, some black, and even white. We crossed rivers and beautiful countryside.

I am amazed at how much fencing contributes to our world. Though we passed a small section of vinyl-coated chain link, most of the fencing was what we sell as Prism Fence. It's super attractive.

As we arrived in the city of Albi, the sight of the Sainte-Cecil d’Albi Cathedral left us in awe. This massive castle-like structure, the largest brick structure in the world, dating back to the 13th century, stood before us. It's also the largest painted cathedral in the world--five acres of paintings! The sheer size and all-brick construction were unlike anything I've ever seen. It's an experience that will forever be etched in my memory.

This massive structure took 200 years to build and is one of the world's most magnificent wonders.

The cathedral's “Treasury” is housed above the main floor, and access is only through a stone spiral staircase. Up and up, we wound to the two rooms of the Treasury, which contained magnificent paintings, icons, and gold treasures of the church.

One of the cathedral's most captivating features is the white stone fence, a true stone lace that separates the choir from the nave. The intricacy of its details is so remarkable that it's hard to fathom how any human being could have carved it. For me, this unique architectural element is not just a testament to the craftsmanship of the time but a personal testament to the beauty and artistry of human hands.

So, my day was filled with fences inside and out. It was the first time I saw a carved stone fence. I failed to mention that when you stand outside this massive structure on the Tarn River, you can look over the river to the brick factories on the hill. This journey, with its myriad of fences and the grandeur of the cathedral, has left an indelible mark on my memory, and I hope it does the same for you.

Check out our Prism fence. It’s practical, aesthetically pleasing, and easy to install.

My warmest regards,

Debbie Page

CEO, Louis E. Page Inc–Woman-owned business and Family-owned since 1893. (True! That’s 131 years owned and run by our family)

Say Goodbye to Rodents with your Secret Weapon!

Are you tired of feeling like you're hosting a secret rodent rave in your garden or shed? Fear not! Our galvanized wire mesh is here to be your ultimate bouncer, keeping those pesky critters out for good! The voles, the moles, the mice, the rats, the chipmunks, or squirrels! Something loves my cherry tomatoes. And I’m not happy.

But! Imagine this: the little guys try to chew their way in, only to realize they’ve met their match—our mesh is tough, durable, and absolutely chew-proof, giving you the confidence that your property is protected. It’s like giving rodents an “Access Denied” sign, no questions asked.

Whether you're protecting your shed, your garden, or anything else they’ve got their beady eyes on, our wire mesh has you covered. So, why let them party when you can put up a fence that says, "No entry for rodents"? Our hardware cloth is perfect for these minor players in your garden.

Get in touch with Terry; she’ll help you pick the perfect mesh to keep your space critter-free! T2C

Kind Regards,

Debbie Page

CEO, Louis E. Page Inc–Woman-owned business and Family-owned since 1893. (Yep: 131 years of continuous service through 2 world wars and 2 pandemics)

I tried to count them . . .

Today, I drove about three hours, giving me plenty of time to look for fences. I was not disappointed. Tall fences, skinny fences, white ones, brown, metal, rusty, privacy, deer, chicken, electric, temporary, chain link, and my beloved stone walls. Some are beautiful, and others are downright ugly, especially the broken and fallen fences.

According to Louis Page, the world is made up of fences, and we have supplied many of them, especially in New England. And we will continue this tradition for many years. We love helping people secure their borders (now that’s a hot topic!)

I passed a vineyard and looked for fencing. It wasn’t the traditional fence in terms of fencing out or in, but coil wire running from stake to stake to provide trellises for the vines. It was a beautiful site, all sloping down the grassy hillside. Spring is trying its best to arrive, though there have been many setbacks: it was 35 degrees this morning and didn’t get out of the 40s today! Seemingly overnight, the grass turned green. And the grape vines are swelling with buds. How lovely is that?

One that particularly struck me as interesting and attractive was a privacy screen around a restaurant patio. It was made of wooden slats nicely stacked horizontally and “planted” in aluminum feeding troughs, which are often used for gardens nowadays. I want to return in the summer to see if flowers, herbs, or vegetables are growing in the troughs. I can imagine it being most pleasant to dine alongside these.

Spring is all about rebirth. I saw two eagles soaring high overhead. The eagle always reminds me of Duncan. Eagles mean freedom, strength, and rebirth. Once, when Duncan and I were out in our wooden sailboat, putzing around the lake using our electric motor, an eagle swooped down close by, caught a fish, and flew to a nearby tall pine tree to enjoy its dinner. How majestic and awesome!

Spring teaches us to look up again. We should look for the earth's beauty surrounding us, whether it be dessert or lush mountains such as those we have in New England. And while we’re looking, let’s look for fences to learn how others have created special and sometimes sacred spaces for themselves and their families.

So, what fencing needs or wishes do you have today? Perhaps, like my friend Liz, you have llamas or a wish to have them. Our sheep and goat fence is ideal. Check out this excellent llama article about using llamas as guard animals.

Warm regards

Debbie Page

CEO, Louis E. Page Inc–Woman-owned business and Family-owned since 1893. (It adds up to 131 years owned and run by our family. Think about it: Nobody stays around in business that long without really supporting customers so they want to come back!)

Finding Beauty Amidst the Storm—And Protecting What Matters

Yesterday, I took a moment to step outside and breathe in the crisp Autumn air. As I approached the bridge over the river, I heard the sounds of giggles and joy from a young couple, lost in each other’s company. It reminded me that, even with the chaos of the world, life continues to offer moments of truth, goodness, and beauty.

But it’s impossible not to think of the devastation left behind by Hurricane Helene in the South. Families have been displaced, loved ones lost, and communities are facing a long road to recovery. Despite the destruction, we’re seeing incredible acts of kindness and resilience. Samaritan’s Purse is on the ground, providing much-needed goods and services, and Elon Musk’s Starlink is helping to restore vital internet connections to the area.

In times like these, I’m reminded of J.R.R. Tolkien’s powerful words:

"The world is indeed full of peril, and in it there are many dark places; but still there is much that is fair, and though in all lands love is now mingled with grief, it grows perhaps the greater."

Even amidst hardship, love and beauty continue to shine through. And just as communities are banding together to rebuild, we at Louis E. Page are committed to providing the fencing solutions that help protect what matters most. Our American and Italian-made fencing products are built to endure, offering strength and peace of mind, whether you’re securing a farm, repairing storm damage, or starting fresh.

From durable wire mesh, to sand erosion and field fencing, we’ve got what you need to safeguard your property and restore security. Terry, our fence expert, is here to help you find exactly what you’re looking for.

Let us know how we can support you as you rebuild.

All my best regards,

Debbie Page

P.S. Our thoughts are with everyone affected by Hurricane Helene. If you need assistance in securing your property, we’re here to help.

CEO, Louis E. Page Inc–Woman-owned business and Family-owned since 1893. (So 131 years ago our family ancestor Louis E. founded the company)

A Cat Named Pig

I mentioned Pig yesterday. Yes, a big cat named Pig. Phoebe and I went to see him again late afternoon. Pig hangs out at the old, dilapidated barn that is getting a facelift.

Phoebe wasn’t as calm today as Pig perched on the hewn hemlock timbers that Rex is preparing for the post-and-beam barn restoration. Rex is kind enough to stop chiseling and “sit a spell.” That good ole Southern phrase means to sit and visit a bit, especially over tea or coffee. Maybe I will bring him a cup of coffee the next time we visit.

“How did Pig get his name?” I asked. Judging by his size, I assumed it was because he ate a lot. Rex told me he was named by his first owner, a one-year-old redheaded girl. She had a two-word vocabulary, “Mama and pig.” She naturally called her cat Pig, especially since he’s big!

On the other hand, Phoebe wasn’t as impressed by Pig’s history—she was too busy trying to dart around, trying to get Pig’s attention. But Pig, in true cat fashion, ignored her, lounging on the rough beam as if he owned the place. Rex chuckled at their antics, and we all took a moment to enjoy the peaceful scene. There’s something special about these old barns. They have character, much like the people—and animals—that frequent them.

Speaking of character, it reminds me of the fencing materials we offer here at Louis Page. Whether it's the rustic charm of a post-and-beam barn or the sleek lines of modern architecture, the right fence adds personality to a space. And just like Rex takes pride in restoring that barn, we take pride in sourcing top-quality materials for our customers—whether made here in America or sourced from trusted manufacturers in Italy and China.

If you ever find yourself with a "Pig" in your life—whether it’s a quirky pet or a project needing restoration—remember that the right tools and materials can make all the difference.

Do you have a project in mind? I’d love to hear about it! Feel free to email me at debbie@louispage.com. Send us pictures. I love seeing your pictures and hearing your stories.

Call Terry and get your order processed. 978-486-3116. T2C

Here’s to good company, Southern hospitality, and finding the perfect fence for every home and barn!

Kind Regards,

Debbie Page

CEO, Louis E. Page Inc–Woman-owned business and Family-owned since 1893. (131 years of continuous service through 2 world wars and 2 pandemics)