Tips for Finding Native American Artifacts

There is something special about looking down and seeing an arrowhead (point) lying in the dirt, or gazing across a plowed field after a rain and seeing the glint of freshly uncovered points. For many, finding Indian artifacts quickly moves from hobby to obsession. I have hunted these articles and studied the best places to locate them for several years. Here’s what I have learned, but by no means is it comprehensive.

I was told early on that the best places to hunt points were bluffs overlooking water. Rivers and flowing streams are ideal, because they have been around since time immemorial, and have not undergone renovations. Most lakes and ponds are man-made, and usually are poor locations to hunt. Of course, all lakes are little more than dammed up rivers, so theoretically there could be places where artifacts are found. Many burial grounds are found in high spots overlooking water.

Plowed fields near rivers or creeks are also excellent sources of artifacts. During the winter, these fields are often freshly plowed and left fallow. On warm days, the earth softens and can be walked. It takes little more than knocking on a door and asking permission to do so. The tractors have done the digging and turning that is so often required, so all that is left is spotting them and picking them up.

Another way to discover artifacts is by dredging creeks and small rivers by hand. All that is needed is a bucket and sieve. I’ve seen sieves made with little more than pine and mesh. A small rope can be tied to the end and tethered to oneself while using the bucket to scoop up the bottom. Pour it in the sieve and removed the large rocks by hand. Shake the small material back and forth and skim through the rest. I have seen massive collections of points accrued in this manner.

If you’re lucky enough to discover where an encampment was located, then you will hit pay dirt. Oftentimes, people will readily tell you where the hot spots are on their land. Casual conversation can reveal places, and at the very least give you an idea of where to look. A natural spring is an ideal starting point. Most Native American encampments were located near fresh water. A plethora of artifacts can be uncovered by merely poking around. I have personally used a barbecue skewer to push into the earth in places. When it hits something, dig it up and see what it is. You might be surprised at what you uncover.

Besides points, there are many artifacts that probably go passed over simply because they were not recognized as such. Visiting the local museum or historical building can be very educational. Study the various tools and imprint them on your memory. Besides the stone tools, pottery is often found. Keep your eyes open for new and unrecognized sources.

A metal detector can also come in handy. From the 19th Century onward, Indians had access to metal. They oftentimes had metal in their regalia.

Beware of burial sites. Besides the supposed curses one might inveigh, the mere act of desecrating another’s resting place should be enough incentive to respect and steer clear. Do not trespass on others’ property without permission, and show respect for the dead. If searching in caves, take along a friend and a flashlight for safety. Look for signs of animal presence outside the entrance, such as prints and scat. Personal safety cannot be under-emphasized.

Also, take extra precautions during hunting seasons if in the woods. Look for empty vehicles and listen for gunfire. Wear protective orange and make your presence known by whistling or talking.

Most of all, treat what you find with reverence. It is sacred and part of our living history. You might even want to disclose to the local historical center your cache and how you located it.