Kirk Corner Notch Point

This triangular corner-notched point exhibits a size range of 1.5 to 4 inches, characterized by a cross-sectional shape that transitions from flattened to elliptical. The blade profile is predominantly excurvate, although variations can occur, ranging from straight to recurvate. Serrations are a common feature, with a notable range in depth from fine to coarse, and may also display beveling. The shoulders are distinguished by strong barbing, which can become less pronounced in specimens where the blade has undergone extensive reworking. The stem expands in width, while the base can vary in shape, typically ranging from straight to concave, with convex bases being relatively rare. Notably, basal grinding is a scarce attribute in this point type. The flaking pattern observed on this point is random, lacking a consistent or organized arrangement.

The dimensions of the arrowheads are as follows: they typically range in overall length from 32 to 120 mm, with a mean length of 55 to 70 mm. The stem length varies between 9 and 15 mm, averaging 12 mm. The blade width spans 20 to 45 mm, with an average width of 29 to 34 mm. At the base, the stem width measures between 23 and 29 mm, with a mean of 25 mm. In terms of thickness, the arrowheads are 5 to 10 mm thick.

This type is mainly linked to the Atlantic Coast area of the United States, extending into the Gulf Coast region and the Tennessee River and Ohio River valleys. This type is also located in the Mississippi River Valley and the Northeastern United States, but with less regularity

The archaeological record indicates that a particular type of projectile point has been dated to as recently as 7,100 years before present in the northwestern region, according to research conducted by Michaels and Smith (1967) and Kraft (1975). However, some scholars, such as Justice (2002), have expressed skepticism regarding the accuracy of these dates, suggesting that they may be too recent.

A notable characteristic of this projectile point type is its distinctive small, corner-notched, and serrated morphology, often accompanied by extensive basal grinding. This style is thought to have emerged following the Hardaway occupation, as observed by Coe (1959), who noted a significant increase in the use of small, hafted, snub-nosed scrapers during this period. Interestingly, Coe (1959) proposes that this point type evolved from the Palmer point, despite the latter's distinctive heavy basal grinding, which is not typically found in this variety.

Regional variations in the size of these projectile points have been observed, with notable differences between the Tennessee River Valley and the Seaboard region. For instance, Coe's research in North Carolina yielded an average size of 70 mm, whereas Cambron's findings in Alabama indicated a smaller average size of 55 mm. Furthermore, John Whatley's analysis suggests that the small Bolen Corner Notch points may be more accurately classified as part of this type, while the larger Bolen Corner Notch points may be more closely related to the Kirk Corner Notch type, as discussed by Schroder (2013). These observations highlight the complexities and nuances of projectile point typology, underscoring the need for continued research and refinement in our understanding of these ancient artifacts.