Eden

9,500 - 7,600 BP ; [Paleo / Plano]

Eden points belong to the Cody Complex, a group of points that share morphologic similarities to one another and existed at roughly the same time. 

Early in their lifespan, Eden points are long. Throughout use they are sharpened from the tip and gradually become shorter. Their flaking patterns remain the same through their lifespan and is incredibly precise, with each flake scar meeting in the middle. This creates a diamond shaped cross section.   

Despite being subtle, Eden points do have shoulders. The stem and base are also ground to be hafted (attached to a spear). 

Learn more about the Cody Complex Here

Typology

  • Form
  • Base
  • Horizontal Cross Section
  • Vertical Cross Section
  • Reduction
  • Stem Grinding
  • Basal Grinding
  • Shouldered (subtle)
  • Straight
  • Diamond
  • Uniform
  • Pressure
  • Yes
  • Yes

Notable Sites

  • Finley, Wyoming – This is the Eden “type-site” (meaning this was the first place Eden points were defined)

  • Horner, Wyoming – This site has a mixture of Eden, Scottsbluff, and Cody knives all found together.²

  • Jurgens, Colorado – A campsite with artifacts that expand on our understandings of Cody lifeways. Ground stone was found – used to process food. A pipe with nicotine residue was also recovered. Eden and Scottsbluff style points were recovered.²

Distribution map (great Plains)

References cited

Typology and Information:

Taylor, Jeb. Projectile Points of the High Plains: New Perspectives on Typology Based on Examinations of Original Type Site Specimens. 1st ed. Buffalo, Wyo.: Jeb Taylor Artifacts, 2006.

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