by Bob Reeves, Knoxville, Tennessee
Originally Published in the Central States Archaeological Journal, Vol.56, No.4, pg.200
Originally Published in the Central States Archaeological Journal, Vol.57, No.2, pg.97
Back in October of 1982, I was hunting Indian relics along the shores of the Tennessee River in northwest Alabama when I found an object that falls into the problematical category. It is made of a local chert type and is well made and looks more or less complete, or so it seems since I have no idea what it is or what it should look like. It is roughly rectangular with parallel sides that are notched on each end. It is 2 9/16″ long along one side and 2 3/4″ long on the opposite side. It is possible that one of the “ears” has a minor ding because it does not terminate in a point as the other three “ears” do. It is 1 3/8″ across the pointed tips at one end and 1 ‘/2″ across at the opposite end. The notches are 5/8″ deep and the inside curves of the notches are smooth as though they have been ground, but more so on the end that appears to be slightly damaged. It is 1 3/8″ wide and 7/8″ thick.
The only theory I have that makes any sense is that it is a double ended spokeshave. The smooth inner edges may be the result of various scraping tasks.
If anyone has found or seen simliar objects or has any ideas to share on this, I would love to hear from you. Email Bob Reeves at breeves@mesaing.com.”Used by Permission of the Author”
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