Dalton Kisatchie Point

This lanceolate point exhibits a distinctive auriculate form, characterized by an elliptical cross-section and a broad, short blade with a pronounced excurvate curvature. The edge often features serrations, adding to its functional complexity. The shoulders, when discernible, are typically subdued and inclined upward, while the stem is notably brief and subtly expanding. A concave base lends the point its signature auriculate silhouette. Evidence of hafting region grinding and basal thinning is commonly observed, suggesting careful preparation for attachment. The flaking pattern on this point is random, with no discernible order or orientation, underscoring the artisan's emphasis on functional utility over formal symmetry.

The dimensions of the arrowheads are characterized by a total length ranging from 25 to 60 mm and a basal width spanning from 20 to 35 mm.

This type is mainly discovered in Louisiana and extends into easternmost Texas, Arkansas, and Oklahoma.

In the realm of Native American archaeology, the San Patrice-Kisatchie arrowhead type holds significant importance, particularly in the context of the Early Archaic period. Initially defined by researchers Sherwood M. Gagliano and Hiram F. Gregory, this distinct type was identified through the analysis of specimens recovered from sites along Bayou Kisatchie, situated within the Kisatchie National Forest in Rapides Parish, Louisiana. Characterized by their medium size, typically ranging from 2 ½ to 3 inches in length, these projectiles and knives feature a distinctive morphology, including short hafting areas formed by the presence of elongated side indentations that create ear-like protrusions at the base.

Notable characteristics of the San Patrice-Kisatchie type include ground stem sides and bases, as well as frequently serrated blade edges. The geographic distribution of this type is believed to encompass Louisiana and Mississippi, highlighting the cultural exchange and technological diffusion that occurred among Native American groups during the Early Archaic period. As documented in the seminal work "A Preliminary Survey of Paleo-Indian Points from Louisiana" by Gagliano and Gregory (1965), published in Louisiana Studies, the San Patrice-Kisatchie type provides valuable insights into the lives and traditions of the region's indigenous populations. Interestingly, while professional archaeological circles refer to this type as San Patrice-Kisatchie, collector communities often employ the term Dalton Kisatchie, underscoring the nuances of nomenclature in the field of archaeology.

The San Patrice-Kisatchie arrowhead type serves as a testament to the ingenuity and craftsmanship of Native American groups, who developed sophisticated hunting technologies that enabled their survival and thrival in the region's diverse environments. Through the study of such artifacts, researchers can reconstruct the cultural, social, and economic dynamics of these ancient societies, ultimately deepening our understanding of the complex and rich history of Native American cultures in North America. As such, the San Patrice-Kisatchie type remains an essential component of archaeological research, offering a unique window into the lives of the people who created and utilized these remarkable artifacts.