Tommy W. Bryden Springfield, Illinois
July 1998 Central States Archaeological Journal
The Illinois State Archaeological Society is proud to submit this superior axe for the cover of this Central States Archaeological Journal. Having been born and raised in Macoupin County, Illinois, I am honored to pay tribute to this work of art by writing this article.
Depending on which type of axe one favors and who is doing the judging, it is fair to say that this axe is either the 1st, 2nd, or 3rd finest Native American axe ever found in the continental United States. It is certainly, to the best of my knowledge, the best axe ever found in the state of Illinois. This top-quality, three-quarter-grooved axe was made from fine-grained granite. It has a prominent ridge just below the groove, which is indicative of prehistoric resharpening. It is 10 inches long and weighs 9 1/2 pounds. The photographs on the cover attest to its symmetry and fine lines. The surface of the axe has excellent overall polish. Axes of this type date from the Middle Archaic to the Early Woodland Culture.
We do not know who originally found the axe, but we are fortunate to have the modern history of its ownership. This outstanding artifact has been well documented. It was first reported to have been in the collection of Edward Payne. Later it was in the collection of Richard Meyer. B.W. Stephens acquired the axe for his second collection in 1958. Mr. Meyer exchanged it, along with two other axes, for three bannerstones. After Stephens’ death, Gene Johns sold the Stephens’ collection and arranged for interested collectors to view the collection prior to the sale. Bob Jenkins was the next owner of record. The record shows that with only forty-five minutes to make his selection before the next collector was due to arrive, Mr. Jenkins bought the axe. Since Mr. Jenkins preferred pocket axes, it was not one of his favorite pieces. The current owner, who wishes to remain anonymous, arrived at Mr. Jenkins’ home shortly after he arrived home with this axe and obtained it from him at that time.
We are pleased to share this wonderful artifact and its modern history with the members of the Central States Archaeological Societies. Illinois is proud to have it represent our state on the cover of the Central States Archaeological Journal July 1998