Abstract: A fence post for use in a wood fence system comprises an elongated center panel, a first side flange and a second side flange that are configured such that the fence post has a generally Z-shaped cross-section. The fence post is preferably made out of metal, such as galvanized steel or the like, with the rails and pickets being made out of wood to provide the appearance of a wood fence. The width of the center panel is approximately the same width as a standard two-by-four such that when the end of a rail is placed against the center panel one of the side flanges abut the side of the rail and the opposite side of the rail is aligned with the other side flange. In the fence system, pickets are attached to the rails. If desired, one picket is placed over a side rail to cover the fence post.