What Does it Mean if Someone Puts a Boot on a Fence in Missouri?

If you drive past as many Missouri fences as I do, you will inevitably see a boot on top of a fence post, but do you know what it means? The answer is complicated and depends on the backstory of the family who's fence it sits upon.

There is no singular answer about the meaning behind why some farmers and ranchers put boots on fence posts, but here are some common meanings I've seen shared by Family Handyman among others.

In decades past before modern communication, a farmer would place a boot on a fence post to signify they were home. That was a way of communicating with their neighbors that they were present if anyone needed help.

For some ranchers, they will place a boot on a fence post if one of their horses passes away. It is also commonly done as a show of respect if one of their fellow famers or ranchers passes.

Probably the least common reason for a boot on a fence, but I've heard of some that do it is to publicly declare their hard work. Nothing quite like a worn out boot to show the blood, sweat and tears as a reason the boot is so worn.

If I had to sum up the meaning of a boot on a fence post with just one word, that would be "respect". Most of the times it's meant for others, but it can also be an honorable tip of the cap to the challenging life farmers and ranchers face.