On the fence...

[Moonhead]

I know what it means, to not take sides, or not make a decision either way, but where does 'Sitting on the fence' come from please? Ta. x

[Quizmonster]

Here is the earliest-recorded version of the phrase, from the writings of R C Sands in 1829..."Mr Spratt was on the fence where, like a wise man, he determined to sit until he had made up his mind on which side to get off."