Here’s the latest article from Native American at BellaOnline.com

Knapping – An Ancient Skill Changing History
Knapping stone to make blades and points is a skill utilized for eons. It is still used by indigenous people around the world, hobbyists, and scientists. Knapping leaves evidence, and this may change the record of human habitation in the Americas.
http://www.bellaonline.com/articles/art45713.asp

I was in Charleston, SC last week for the funeral of a dear friend. One of my cousins introduced me to a self-taught knapper. He had several pieces in this pocket, both in stone and glass. The clear glass arrowhead was stunning. It was hard to believe he had rather recently learned this, on his own, from watching internet videos. Some people just have the “knack” to “knap.”

There was a pile of fill dirt with river rock outside. He found two pieces of quartz and in about five minutes had the bottom portion of an arrow point roughed out. His speed and skill was amazing. Driving home, I thought about the knapped flakes which fell to the ground as he worked. Would they be found centuries in the future and associated with the pile of dredged fill dirt, or correctly dated to the 21st century?

After learning this ancient skill, my new friend made his own video. Join us in the forum to see his lovely work. It’s simple, fast, and FREE to register, and our forum is not like others on the internet. It is a place of respect, learning, and sharing. You are among friends, and I look forward to seeing you there!

http://forums.bellaonline.com/ubbthreads.php?ubb=postlist&Board=140

Your comments and feedback are an integral part of the website and forum. Each one is most graciously appreciated. Always feel free to contact me on the website, start a new topic in the forum, and to share this newsletter with your family and friends.

The Jet Stream finally headed south this past week, bringing with it much needed rain. Sadly, we haven’t had enough and 4th of July firework displays have been cancelled across the area. But this is an insignificant loss compared to that of our fellow Americans in and around Minot, ND, and along the Missouri River. Until next time, please keep those affected by this historic flooding in your thoughts and prayers.

Walk in Balance and Beauty,


Jane Winkler, Native American Editor
http://nativeamerican.bellaonline.com

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