Toolmaking

• Making tools for hunting was a vital skill for the early inhabitants of Georgia.Hemera Technologies/PhotoObjects.net/Getty Images
  
  The people living during ancient times were hunter/gatherers. Making stone points was an important skill that was passed down from father to son. It was important for them to adhere to shapes and patterns that were successful for them. Changes in size and style took hundreds of years. Because of this, the points found during each period of time can be distinguished by the shape of the body and the base.
  
  

Paleoindian Period

• Clovis points were the earliest evidence of arrowheads found in Georgia.Hemera Technologies/PhotoObjects.net/Getty Images
  
  The Paleoindian period occurred from 13,000 B.C. to 7,900 B.C. The stone points made during this period are called Clovis points and date back approximately 12,000 years in Georgia. Even though these are the oldest, they are also the most complex stone points found in the state. They are triangular with very detailed flaking of the stone on both sides. They are called Clovis points because the first evidence of their existence was found in Clovis, N.M. in 1929.
  
  

Archaic Period

• Archaic period arrowheads were made for spears.Hemera Technologies/PhotoObjects.net/Getty Images
  
  The Archaic period dates from around 8000 B.C. to 2000 B.C. The points made during this period were much smaller and were used primarily as spearheads. Early period points had notches on the side near the base to allow them to be strapped to the spear itself. As spear-making skills increased, middle period points had rounded bases with no notches. The late period points were much larger and had square bases.
  
  

Woodland Period

• The Woodland Period marked the beginning of the use of arrows.Hemera Technologies/AbleStock.com/Getty Images
  
  The Woodland period began after 2000 B.C. It was during this time that the use of a bow and arrow evolved. The points used during this time were smaller than ever. Evidence has been found of points with a notched stem or base, while others were more advanced and shaped like sharks' teeth. Some of the arrowheads found from this time were made of bone rather than stone. Arrowheads of this type continued to be used until firearms appeared.