Stone Tool Craftsmanship
The craftsmanship of stone tools in pre-Columbian St. Martin reflects the ingenuity and resourcefulness of the island’s early inhabitants.
Archaeological excavations at key sites such as Baie Rouge and Cupecoy Bay have uncovered a variety of stone tools, including axes, adzes, and scrapers, which were essential for daily life and survival.
The stone tools found at Red Bay, excavated during the archaeological reconnaissance by M.P. Sypkens Smit and A.H. Versteeg between 1979 and 1981, include seven complete and nine broken axes of petaloid shape, some of which show evidence of grinding. These tools were likely used for activities such as woodcutting, food preparation, and crafting other tools or objects.
At Cupecoy Bay, similar stone artifacts have been found, indicating a shared cultural tradition of tool-making across different settlements on the island. The tools were often made from locally sourced materials, including volcanic rocks and imported chert, demonstrating a deep knowledge of the island’s geology and a sophisticated understanding of tool-making techniques.
The study of these stone tools provides valuable insights into the technological skills of St. Martin’s pre-Columbian inhabitants, as well as their ability to adapt to and utilize their environment effectively.
References: Sypkens Smit, M.P., Versteeg, A.H. (1982). Preliminary Report on the Archaeology of St. Martin. Bullen, R., & Bullen, A. (1966). Artifact Variation and Inter-site Relationships.