Russell Cave National Monument:
The Southeast's Most Complete Record Through Time
by Melanie B. Bradford, Section #6 of 7

The Archaic Indians
(7,000 BC - 1,000 BC)

Although predominantly nomadic, the Archaic Indians slowly began to establish more permanent camps that revolved around the seasonal cycles of game, nuts, berries and other food sources. To better benefit from the resources of the environment, they developed several ingenious inventions:

1. Spear and Mainshaft - A hollow cane or bamboo type spear shaft to which was attached a stick fitted with a spear point. When used upon game, the spear point remained in the animal, while the spear shaft could be removed and used again.
2. The Atlatl - This was a lever type device used to throw a spear farther than normally possible. The hunter could sneak up on game more effectively and remain at a safer distance from the game.
3. Carved Stone Pots and Simple Pottery

Other Artifacts

• The Paleo-Indians
• The Mississippian Indians
• The Woodland Indians
• The Real Significance of the Findings

Previous / Next