The stone age in North America, vol. 1 of 2

explanation is necessary. This work is the result of twenty-five years’ study of primitive man’s

prehistoric implements, weapons, and utensils found in America. During the past ten years I have

presented several attempts at classification of these various objects, two of them being in book

form. But my publications were incomplete and unsatisfactory, although in a sense they prepared

the way for “THE STONE AGE.”

A classification of stone, bone, shell, clay, and copper implements in the United States is a

difficult and tedious task in itself. There were different cultures, some of which are known, others

but slightly known, and it is quite likely that, as time passes, implements will be discovered in

such numbers as to justify the establishing of new types. Therefore my work cannot be complete,

although I have endeavored to include in it all type-specimens brought to my notice.