Fences and Between Fences: Cultural, Historical, and Smithsonian Perspectives.

The article explores the dichotomous and contentious interpretations of fences, walls, and physical, philosophical, and psychological barriers of all types, from playpens and prisons to boundary-line real and virtual fences. It describes fences featured at the "Between Fences Smithsonian" traveling exhibition. It also explores how fencing has help mold and reflect Americans' views of private and public spaces. It discusses different North American perspectives on barriers and boundaries in the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries.