POACACEAE, R. Br. (Grass Family)
The grass family was the most commonly and widely used of any of the monocotyledonous families.
Big blue stem grass (Andropogon furcatus, Muhl.) was one of the major fibrous plants used by the cave and rock-shelter peoples of Ohio in the construction of coarsely woven articles, such as rope and moccasins. It was commonly used without preliminary treatment, but was simply twisted or braided into strands. The specimens examined were from the Ohio State Historical and Archaeological Museum. A typical example of the use of this fiber is in a woven moccasin (OSHAM 898-1).
Sweet grass (Hierochloe odorata, L.), to be distinguished from sweet vernal grass, was encountered only once in a bag made by the Michigan Ottawa Indians (MAIHF 19-7125).
Canebrake (Arundinaria tecta, Muhl.) was a common source of fiber for moccasins and rope. It seems to have been utilized by most of the prehistoric cave and rock-shelter peoples within its range (OSHAM 332-27).
TYPHACEAE, J. St. Hil. (Cat-tail Family)
The cat-tail (Typha latifolia, L.) was observed in a mat found in the caves of Tennessee (USNM 132252).
ZEA MAYS, L. (Indian Corn)
Indian corn occurred only once. This single occurrence has no real significance as to the frequency of its use, for all specimens in which it was obvious that corn was the material used were not sampled. The sample noted here was found in a knife made by the Micmac Indians (McGU H76). The material was a cornstalk which had been subjected to considerable pressure to force out the juice and pith to bring the hardy flinty layers into juxtaposition. It was then used as a wedge to fasten the knife handle. It was extremely hard and durable.