Board-and-batten siding was very popular in the 19th century, during the Civil War, and has appeared on and off again ever since. It is gaining popularity now. The board-and-batten system consists of larger boards, spaced a little bit apart, with smaller battens either behind or in front of the larger boards, covering the spaces. This system gives a rural feel to a home. It also ties a home into a wooded area beautifully. If your home is in a historic area this look will fit right in. With newer materials available, there are ways to make this style more durable; for example, using fiber cement board.
Read the full article here Board-And-Batten Reborn-Fine homebuilding