Historically Significant Lewis and Clark Expedition Spontoon Tomahawk
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About this item
Officially known as the “Corps of Discovery”, the Lewis & Clark Expedition began in 1804
and continued through 1806. Led by Meriwether Lewis and William Clark, it's purpose
was to map out new land from the Missouri to the Pacific and also to establish peace
among the native tribes. Private John Shields was taken along as their blacksmith to
make metal items for the native tribes for trade and to establish trust.
Hand-forged wrought iron head with lap-welded eye featuring 3 punched holes in the
blade with faint dots around these holes; stamped with “JS” maker’s mark (John Shields).
Old haft, possibly original, featuring leather wrap with brass tacks and small beaded drop
made of old trade beads. To be noted, this spontoon is similar to Meriwether's sketch in
his journal while wintering among the Mandans. Old brass shank tacks plus leather fringe
drops at the haft eye; old square nails securing the head. Museum catalog numbers can
be found on bottom of haft. Head measures 12 1/4" L, 3 1/4" W. Length with haft 17
inches. This spontoon tomahawk was once in a Washington State museum and later
obtained from the Jim Dresselar Collection of rare historical relics. It is featured in Lar
Hothems "Rare and Unusual Indian Artifacts" p. 263. Very possible that Shields forged
this rare and historic spontoon tomahawk while wintering among the Mandans.
Additional Information
Tuckasegee, United States
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