Indian War Clubs of the American Frontier
by John Balwin is 8 1/2 by 12 inches, 96 pages, in a hard-cover
format. This work offers a wealth of information in its 16 well-organized
chapters. John is a well-known author and authority on Historic
Period artifacts, and this work offers the collector an exceptional
reference guide for identifying these artifacts. From its preface
where John recounts the story of play battles with his brother
using a rubber tomahawk, to its bibliography, it is packed full
of relevant information.
John extensive use of photographs (many of which feature historic Indians
actually holding various war clubs and axes) adds fascinating information.
Along with the photographs are captions from which one gets an education
on the age, evolution, and styles of clubs the Indians used. We also learn
of the English, French and enterprising new Americans who traded with the
Indians.
John also explains to us how these war clubs and axes made of stone and/or
metal came to be known generally as tomahawks. Keep in mind that these
artifacts were weapons and as weapons, could be quite brutal. In chapter
14, John shows us the damage inflicted by different styles of this weapon.
John Balwin is one of the premier authorities on historic artifacts, and
this book shows us why. He has written extensively, and this book is just
one of a series. His other contributions to the historical record include Tomahawks
and Pipe Axes of the American Frontier, Early Knives and Beaded Sheaths
of the American Frontier, and Bows, Arrows and Quivers of the American
Frontier. This new book, as well as the aforementioned titles, will
be an invaluable addition to your reference library.
