There are several synonyms for the phrase "was the fence" that can be used to make your writing more interesting and varied. One possible substitution would be "stood the barrier", which conveys the same idea of a physical structure dividing two areas. Another option might be "guarded the perimeter", which suggests a sense of protection or defense. Alternatively, you could use "enclosed the yard", "defined the property line", or "contained the garden", depending on the specific context and purpose of the fence. By exploring different vocabulary choices, you can enhance the clarity and impact of your writing and engage your readers in new and exciting ways.