Modular post anchor device

Abstract

A modular post anchor device is placed in the ground to hold and support a post as part of a fence. The device is held in the ground by a horizontal anchor. The device attaches to the post via a vertical support. The post is secured by fasteners or the like.

What is claimed: 
     
         1 . a modular post anchor device comprising:
 a horizontal anchor member attached to a vertical support member;
 the vertical support member including a body with a cavity accessible through the top surface; 
   wherein the cavity is configured to hold and secure a post as part of a fence; and   wherein the horizontal anchor secures the device with respect to the surrounding soil.   
     
     
         2 . The device of  claim 1  wherein the vertical support member has at least one hole passing through the side to accept fasters to secure the post to the support member. 
     
     
         3 . The method of anchoring a post as part of fence given the device of  claim 1 , comprising:
 preparing a hole in the ground where a fence post is to be installed;   placing the modular post anchor device in the ground so that the horizontal anchor member is generally parallel with the top of the ground;   filling the hole with the removed soil;   placing a post in the cavity of the vertical support member;   securing the post to the vertical support member;   using the post to hold a fence;   removing the post to replace it with a new post; and   installing a new post to hold the same fence.