Native American artifacts are unique to regions

By STEVE TIBBS
Apple Hill Antiques

My family was originally from southern Illinois and my father began collecting Indian artifacts in the 1970s at the various construction sites at which he worked.  My father has now handed down the majority of his collection to me — and I’ve added several pieces over the years.

Different areas of the country have artifacts that are unique to that region — based on the type of rock/mineral used, style of the cuts, decorative items used, etc. The southern portion of Illinois is low-lying and full of ponds and marshes — there are very few rocks, so artifacts are easier to find and often have little to no damage. Pennsylvania’s soil is full of bedrock, so, unfortunately, many artifacts found here are broken and not as high quality.  

Here are some of the Native American artifacts/tools I have in my collection:

■ Celts

These were handheld tools, used mainly for chopping.

■ Axes

Also used for chopping, these were typically attached to a stick or handle and have a grooved or notched area where once attached.

■ Arrowheads

What is commonly referred to as an “arrowhead” did not actually go on the end of an arrow to then be shot from a bow. Instead, these tools were used for cutting, like knives.

There are a large variety of these in my collection. Different tribes and different regions made various forms. The actual points that were attached to the end of an arrow are typically referred to as “bird points,” and are much smaller and more aerodynamic.

■ Hoes

These tools were tied to a stick and were not typically notched. They had tapered ends, but they are still somewhat blunt and not sharpened.

■ Spades

These tools are used more for digging. They also were attached to a stick and were usually notched. They were typically bigger than a hoe and have a somewhat sharper, more tapered edge.

Collectors should be aware that there are a lot of reproductions on the market, so it is important to be cautious when purchasing artifacts. A natural polish or patina is difficult to fake and is something to watch for if you are adding to or starting a collection. On the plus side, unlike many other collectibles, these artifacts tend to continue to rise in value.

Many items from my collection are now available for viewing at Apple Hill Antiques in the collector’s case. I invite you to stop by to see these items, which will be on display there during the months of June and July.