A Texas Word: Barditch

I have heard alot of speculation to why Texans use the word barditch for the ditch on the side of the road. Like they BARrow the dirt from the side of the road to build up the road leaving a ditch.

I have found that in England long ago there was a ditch around the town of Boston which was called a barditch.

Boston Barditch

"1200 There are the first references to the Barditch, the boundary around the east side of Boston. Consisting of a ditch and internal bank, the earthwork was probably constructed some time during the twelfth century. The ditch presumably surrounded the twelfth century settlement although during the thirteenth century and later, property was held outside the Barditch, indicative of urban expansion. It is not clear whether the ditch had any defensive purpose but it is more likely that the bridge across the Barditch would have provided a suitable collection point for tolls from those visiting the fairs or markets. The length of the ditch was used as an open sewer and rubbish tip. It may not have been until the 16th century that the ditch was made to ebb and flow with the tide in order to keep it comparatively clean and it was the responsibility of the frontages along the Barditch to scour away the filth."

Another Boston Barditch Reference