Chain & Stakes

[Terrance]

The most basic tools used in surveying were the chain and stakes, jacob
staff, plain surveying compass, plane table, and transit; a theodolite
often took the place of the compass and transit. The standard measuring
chain was of the type called Gunter's chain, consisting of 100 links
totaling 66 feet (7.92 inches per link). This was also called a
four-pole chain, since it contained four poles (also called "perches" or
"rods") of 16½ feet each. (Bedini, pp. 463-~64). These chains were
usually made of wrought iron or steel. 

http://www.connerprairie.org/historyonline/surveyin.html