Dalton Hempstead Point

This auriculate point exhibits a medium size profile, characterized by a blade cross-section that can vary from an elliptical shape to a more flattened form. The blade edge is generally straight, often featuring serrations and beveling. A distinctive constricted waist is present, which can result in shoulders and auricles that are either weakly defined or absent. The base of the point displays a range of concavity, from slight to deep. Evidence of grinding is visible on the hafting area, and both basal grinding and flaking are common features. In some cases, the basal flaking pattern may create an appearance reminiscent of fluting. The overall flaking pattern on the point can exhibit a range of styles, including oblique transverse, horizontal transverse, collateral, or random arrangements.

The arrowheads exhibit dimensions ranging from 35 to 65 millimeters in overall length, with blade widths spanning 15 to 25 millimeters, as determined from a limited dataset.

This type is located in Arkansas and extends into northern Louisiana.

In comparison to the quintessential Dalton point, this particular arrowhead exhibits a more compact morphology, characterized by a shorter length and narrower width. This distinction is notable, as the Dalton point is often regarded as a paradigmatic example of early Native American projectile technology, typically dating back to the Late Pleistocene era, around 10,000 to 12,000 years ago. The more diminutive proportions of this point suggest a potential variation in design or functional adaptation, warranting further examination and analysis to elucidate its significance within the context of Native American archaeological record.