Fig. 244. (S. 1–1.) This is one of those unusual celt-like, problematical forms, having a depression in the centre. This was found by Clarence B. Moore, in a mound at Keno Plantation, Morehouse Parish, Louisiana, and I am indebted to him for the loan of the illustration.
A review of the illustrations in two preceding chapters convinces one that nearly all the celts, adzes, and gouges may be grouped satisfactorily. But here and there we find specimens illustrated on the previous pages which indicate specialization, or particular effort on the part of the maker. These, of course, are open to questions as to where one should include them. That they meant a great deal to the mind of the Stone-Age man, no one can deny.
Fig. 245. (S. 1–3.)
There were two or three methods of mounting celts in handles. The ordinary hatchet-blade was set so that the edge was parallel to the handle. This is the natural way of mounting a tool used in cutting or striking. The small celts, serving as scrapers, and also adzes, were set at right angles to the handles.
The latter style of mounting was customary among the tribes of the Rocky Mountains, and on the Great Plains. I present several original bone handles from the Mandan sites in the chapter on bone implements, in Volume II. Again, gouges and long cutting-blades were mounted in wooden handles of various lengths, the blades being set at an angle which varied according to necessity. As to how adzes and gouges were mounted, Mr. Willoughby is clear in his excellent article on “The Adze and the Ungrooved Axe of the New England Indians,” cited on a previous page.
Fig. 246. (S. 2–3.) This is from the collection of S. E. Turner, Riverside, Rhode Island, and is one of those polished hafted hatchets which defies classification. It is angular, highly polished, keen of edge, and symmetrical. The illustration describes it better than can any words of mine.
Fig. 247. (S. 1–2.) From the collection of Charles A. Perkins, Wakefield, Massachusetts. It was found near Wakefield. There are seven small elevations on the back of this gouge.