Chert hoes as digging tools

Abstract

What type of implement was used to cut and move earth in prehistory? In the Mississippian culture at least, the key tool was the stone hoe -formed from a chert blade strapped to a handle. These blades were hoarded and depicted in use, leaving little doubt that they were for digging, in the service of agriculture and extracting earth for building. Drawing on a series of controlled experiments, the authors deduce the capabilities and biographies of the stone hoes, evoking the admirable efforts of the people who constructed the massive mounds of Cahokia.

Mill Creek Chert Hoes and Prairie Soils: Implications for Cahokian Production and Expansion

“…Two 1 × 1 m test patches were excavated, 1 one with the grass cut short to simulate burning and the other with the grass left intact. Excavation was surprisingly easy, and the top 10 cm of soil was removed in less than 10 minutes in both cases; this is comparable to results from previous studies in floodplain settings (Hammerstedt 2005:45-47;Milner et al 2010). Some roots were present, but these were less than 1 cm in diameter ( Figure 3) and were easily cut.…”

“…Given the relatively short length of the handle, digging was more effective (and less stressful on one's back) when done in a kneeling or squatting position. Unlike in previous experiments (Hammerstedt 2005:45-47;Milner et al 2010), our handle did not break nor did the hoe blade. Milner et al (2010) suggest that short handles like the one depicted on the Birger figurine are not merely a matter of artistic license; rather, they are an accurate depiction of the relative length of these handles.…”

“…Mill Creek chert is also known for its toughness and durability (Dunnell et al 1994), and many tools exhibit highly polished surfaces from use. This polish begins to form within 30 continuous minutes of initial use (Milner et al 2010) and is likely caused by abrasion from soils and/or grass fibers (e.g., Sonnenfeld 1962;Witthoft 1967).…”

“…Digging experiments with Mill Creek hoes were conducted by Hammerstedt (2005:45-47) and Milner et al (2010) on floodplains in the eastern United States and Mexico. In both cases, floodplain soils were easily turned with these tools, particularly after the initial sod breaking allowed one to excavate into a vertical face.…”

“…Milner et al (2010) suggest that short handles like the one depicted on the Birger figurine are not merely a matter of artistic license; rather, they are an accurate depiction of the relative length of these handles. Similar tools in use today have handles of this length, and longer handles may have increased stress on the stone blades, making them more susceptible to breakage (Milner et al 2010;Shaw 1970). …”