Setting new posts in old ground

2011/10/22 | Colorado: Gunnison Co.

Setting new posts in old ground

By Matt Barnes 

I.

Always wondered how those old-timers set so many fenceposts.

Now I’m replacing an old hard wood post that’s done its time

with a new one, milled round and freshly treated.

It takes a long time to un-root the old stump

below where the cedar post finally rotted off,
Stubborn stobs of one-time branches anchoring it to the ground.
 
With a great heave and expelled breath that old-timer finally lets go.

When I set my new post it fits right in the old hole.

But after tamping all the dirt back in…
I wonder that it never fills the hole completely.
 

II.

It is good to have an intern, young and earnest

even if a little out of place in sneakers and sideways cap.
I wonder what will happen with those low-belted pants
and grimace every time he leans over to dig.
I thought I was young, but he must think I’m old.
I allow that he’s got try, and I think he’s getting the hang of it now.
 

I turn him loose to replace a rotted-off old corner post.

The post is set, sturdy enough for now at least.

But the deadman is upside down and backwards…
Like an old-timer rolling over in his grave.