Stone tools are among the oldest and most significant artifacts left behind by early human societies, offering critical insights into how ancient people lived, worked, and adapted to their environments. These tools were essential for tasks such as cutting, hunting, and food preparation, as well as crafting other tools. They were made from various types of stones, often chosen based on the workability, hardness and durability and availability of the stone. These stones were made into tools by flint knapping: the process of striking a stone with another stone or harder object to remove flakes and shape the stone. The tools could be made using indirect percussion, where a softer material like bone or antler acts as an intermediary to provide more precision in shaping, or direct percussion, where the two stones are struck directly against each other. Some tools were then hafted onto wooden handles.
Stone tools have been found all over the world – including here in Connecticut! The three mystery stone tools below were all found in Middletown and nearby towns, and were specialized for different tasks. Using the photos and clues below, guess what each tool was used for before revealing the answer!
Mystery Stone Tool 1
What was this tool used for?
- Notice where it pinches in on the left side. A stick could be attached here.
- Notice the small, sharp point.
- Notice how the edges have small scars or flake marks.
Mystery Stone Tool 1 Answer
This was a Spearpoint or Arrowhead.
It was probably used for hunting.
Mystery Stone Tool 2
What was this tool used for?
- Notice it’s much bigger and heavier.
- This tool also has a narrow part where you could attach some sort of handle.
- Think about the shape of the object. Does it remind you of any tools that we use today?
Mystery Stone Tool 2 Answer
This was an Axehead.
It was probably used for woodworking.
Mystery Stone Tool 3
What was this tool used for?
- Notice it’s smaller and lighter. It’s the perfect size to fit in your hand.
- Notice the long sharp edge.
- Think about the shape of the object. Does it remind you of any tools that we use today?
Mystery Stone Tool 3 Answer
This was a Knife.
It was probably used for cutting meat or other materials.
What else can we learn from these tools?
When
These tools were found on the surface of the ground so we do not know the exact date when they were made or used.
Where
These objects and many similar stone tools were found right here in Middletown and nearby areas.
Who
These tools were made by Native Americans that have lived in this area for over 10,000 years.
One local group that may have created these tools are the Wangunk people, who:
- Lived in areas west of the Connecticut River, including Middletown, Wethersfield and Portland.
- Followed the Great Spirit Manitou, who they saw in all living things and nature.
- Lived in round-topped wigwams for shelter.
- Used cured animal hides for clothing.
- Carving canoes from birch trees.
- Farmed crops like corn, squash, and sunflowers.
They probably used stone tools for many of these activities!
The Wangunk people are still here today, both in and outside of Connecticut!
