Side-Notched Point
Sylvan side-notched point, 4.60 x 2.48 x 0.71cm, historically described as an “arrowhead.” It was made roughly 5,000 years ago, while this style was more common in Western Massachusetts. This chert point was manufactured by hand through a process known as Flintknapping, which required the use of a blunt object, i.e. hammer stone. The resulting sharp flakes were often used as small cutting tools or scrapers. Native Americans produced these objects throughout their lives, while metal points were not uncommon by the Colonial Era. Our Sylvan point was found by lifelong Westford resident Amos Polley (1878-1953) in 1938, either in Westford or more likely in the Western part of the state.
For more information on Native Americans of the region past and present, visit the Mashantucket Pequot Museum website.
N.2010.3.11