Brad --

The "conventions" don't get tossed around as much as maybe before, but then I hadn't thought about it in awhile...

Dutch - Ref begins at the reference / I end of the frame ( typ beginning either at S or E - at least hereabouts) and runs from thereon, only reversing at the last bent.

English - Ref begins at the Drive / Threashing bay and runs in both directions to then reverse at either gable bent.

As to the 2' mark question, I can't answer, though I am a plumb line scriber, I was not trained in the French Tradition...

I'm guessing Mo might be able to answer this question.

"We build too many walls and not enough bridges" - Isaac Newton

http://bridgewright.wordpress.com/