Point  ID

Kirk Points

Corner Notched,Stemmed,Snapped Base,Bifurcated

Early to Middle Archaic (9000-6000) B.P.

The Kirk Complex of points are quite prevalent in this area of Tennessee and is my most commonly found Early Archaic point  (5%)  according to my records .  These points represent some of the most elegant and artistic of all the  points in this region and are one of the points I always hope to find when I go hunting

Characteristics:

SIZE :  These are medium to large points measuring about 1,1/2" to 5", with most being around 2".

KEY FEATURES: Triangular to Sunfish shaped blades, bases as follows:

Corner Notched: Narrow to medium notches and bases that can be concave , convex, straight or articulated, excellent edgework ,many are finely serrated.

Stemmed: Parallel to expanding stem, the base can be concave,convex,or straight. The shoulders are usually strong and well defined, many are deep notched or finely serrated.

Snapped Base: The base is deliberately broken usually near the top of the stem.

Bifurcated: Base divides into two ears that are parallel to expanding, many are deep notched or finely serrated.

THICKNESS:  Thin  to Medium

SIMILAR TYPES: PineTree, St. Charles, Heavy Duty, Lost lake, and Stanly

FLAKING:  Archaic, with fine edge work.