Arrowhead type

Albion Head Point

Albion HeadPacific Coast Side Notch Cluster5,500 - 2,500 B.P.Early Archaic

2 reference photos

Key facts

Age
5,500 - 2,500 B.P.
Cultural period
Early Archaic
Size
Medium
Shape
Side Notch to Corner Notch
Glacial period
Middle Holocene to Neoglacial

More from the Archaic period

Description

This triangular point exhibits a distinctive side notch configuration, characterized by an elliptical profile. The blade's curvature is predominantly excurvate, with shallow, U-shaped notches that define the shoulder, which rises at an acute angle. The stem broadens outward, while the base varies in shape, ranging from slightly concave to more pronouncedly concave. The basal ears display a range of forms, from squared to rounded. The flaking pattern on this point is random, lacking a discernible order or sequence.

Size

The arrowheads exhibit a range of dimensions, with overall lengths spanning 26 to 65 mm. The stem section measures between 7 and 11 mm in length. In terms of width, the blade ranges from 16 to 29 mm, while the neck width varies from 10 to 21 mm. The stem itself is 15 to 28 mm in width. Thickness measurements fall within a range of 5 to 10 mm.

Distribution

This type is mainly discovered in the upper seaside mountains of California.

Mainly found in

Additional information

In the realm of archaeological nomenclature, the classification of a particular projectile point has undergone a significant revision. Initially, this point was identified as the Mendocino Side Notch by William E. Soule, who first discovered it at site Men-584 in Mendocino County, California. However, in an effort to streamline and clarify the terminology used to describe projectile points found in the northern coastal ranges of California, Noel Justice reclassified this point in 2002. Justice's revision was prompted by the need to avoid duplication and reduce the overreliance on the Mendocino name, which had become increasingly associated with a multitude of projectile points in the region. By re-naming this point, Justice aimed to introduce a more nuanced and precise system of classification, as outlined in his 2002 publication. This reclassification has since contributed to a more organized and comprehensive understanding of the archaeological record in this region.

Identified by

Named by
Noel Justice
Year
2002
Type site
Albion Head site, Mendocino County, California

Similar types

Types that are easy to confuse with the Albion Head point.

Other types in the Pacific Coast Side Notch Cluster

  • Diablo Canyon
  • Jalama

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