I ran across this interesting relic in a wooded area adjacent to a corn field that had taken over about 1/4 mile of old RR R.O.W. It appears to be a stone and cement footing pulled out of the ground by the farmer with what would have been a vertical piece of rail. I'm guessing the rail used to be taller and had been cut down, but I don't know. Does this have any known application, or is it likely just an improvised post for a shed or gate or something? Just thought it was interesting.

(Taken with my phone - sorry for the poor image quality)