The Indian Tomahawk
The term tomahawk is a derivative of the Algonquin word tamahak. It quickly became the common name for various types of axes used by natives, trappers and coureurs de bois. Shortly after the arrival of Europeans, the tomahawk stone head gave way to the metal axe heads offered by traders. They could be iron, brass, bronze or even copper and was primarily used for warfare. Each European nation producing tomahawk heads for the Indian trade used its own pattern and making. The English blade resemble a freight axe, the French was shaped like a fleur-de-lis, and the Spanish was in the shape of a broadax. However it was the Indian artisan who gave the tomahawk its growing glory with his beaded, carved, fur-covered, painted handles, and stately beaded tabs whang appendages which were in perfect proportion and attached to the handle ends.
In 1612, William Strachey distinguished between and Indian Hatchet (stone axe or cunenagwas) and a hatchet (iron trade axe). Learning from immigrant blacksmiths, Indians started to manufacture their own tomahawks using old gun barrels, horseshoes, and even worn out wagon rims.



Missouri Ax
Missouri War Ax
A true classical 19th Century style war tomahawk. Hand forged in USA, 61 cm.
HAC03 - Missouri Ax ...$ 145.00


Old Missouri War Ax
19th Century War Ax

Antique Pipe Tomahawk
19th Century Indian Tomahawk

Tourist Trade Tomahawk Pipe
Old English Style Tomahawk

Assiniboine Tipis
PO Box 649 Lundar, MB R0C1Y0
Phone: (204) 762-5523
Canada
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