Knap Time
Many millennia before humans dreamed of metals for tools and weaponry, there was stone. What started with broken cobblestones became exquisite spear and arrow points, and the most eloquent and diverse styles were made right here in America. The Americas were isolated from Europe around 12,500 B.C. when the Iron Age was taking root. Nonetheless, at the same time, American flintknappers were producing some of their most incredible work.
Today, in the United States, there is a healthy group of flintknapperscommonly referred to as lithic artists— practicing the old techniques, along with an avid following of collectors ready to buy their creations.
Woody Blackwell is one of the preeminent flintknappers in the USA
