Bare Island projectile point

Bare Island Projectile Point

The Bare Island projectile point is a type of stone tool that was used by Native American cultures in the northeastern United States. These projectile points are typically associated with the Late Archaic period, which dates from approximately 3000 to 1000 BCE. They are named after Bare Island, located in the Susquehanna River in Pennsylvania, where they were first identified.

Description

Bare Island projectile points are characterized by their long, narrow blades and relatively thick cross-sections. They often have a straight or slightly convex base and exhibit a broad, shallow side notch. The points are typically made from local chert or jasper, materials that were readily available to the indigenous peoples of the region.

The size of Bare Island points can vary, but they generally range from 5 to 10 centimeters in length. The craftsmanship of these points indicates a high level of skill in flintknapping, a process by which stone tools are shaped through the controlled removal of flakes.

Cultural Significance

The presence of Bare Island projectile points at archaeological sites provides valuable insights into the subsistence strategies and trade networks of Late Archaic peoples. These points were likely used as tips for spears or darts, which were essential for hunting large game such as deer and elk.

The distribution of Bare Island points suggests that they were part of a widespread cultural tradition in the northeastern United States. Their presence in various archaeological contexts indicates that they were used over a long period and may have been traded or exchanged among different groups.

Archaeological Context

Bare Island projectile points are often found in association with other Late Archaic artifacts, such as stone tools, pottery, and evidence of habitation sites. These sites provide a glimpse into the daily lives of the people who used these tools, including their diet, social organization, and technological innovations.

The study of Bare Island points contributes to our understanding of the technological and cultural developments during the Late Archaic period. By examining the materials and methods used to create these points, archaeologists can infer patterns of resource use and adaptation to changing environmental conditions.

Also see

• Projectile point
• Flintknapping
• Late Archaic period
• Chert
• Jasper