North American Paleoindian Bi-Beveled Bone and Ivory Rods: A New Interpretation

Abstract

This article gives an inventory of North American Paleoindian osseous points and bi-beveled rods. Quantitative and qualitative information is gathered and compared. Present and past hypotheses on the possible uses of bi-beveled rods are reviewed and individually critiqued. The particular physical characteristics of bi-beveled rods are then used to interpret their function. Based on the compiled information, a new hafting method for Clovis points is put forth that links the attributes of bi-beveled rods to a specific role within this system. This new hypothesis suggests that bi-beveled rods were tied facing each other around a Clovis point and a main shaft as part of composite clothes pin-like foreshafts.