Big Sandy

Name: The Big Sandy point was named for the Big Sandy I phase of the Archaic period described by T.M.N. Lewis.

Age: Big Sandy points were dated at the Stanfield-Worley Bluff Shelter at 10,000 BP.[1] The Auriculate form has been dated at 9689 years BP, and the Broad Base and Contracted Base forms share a similar date.

Description: Unlike the Taylor point, the Big Sandy has a variety of basal constructions that have been given a variety of names to describe their differences.  Generally, the Big Sandy is a medium to large point measuring 1.5 to 3 inches in length. The cross section is bi-convex. Big Sandy points are not typically beveled, but may be serrated. Basal construction variations give way to such names as Big Sandy, Big Sandy Auriculate, Big Sandy Broad Base,  and Big Sandy Contracted Base.

Distribution: Big Sandy points are rare in Georgia and occur most frequently along Georgia’s fall line.

[1] Cambron, James W. and David C. Hulse, Handbook of Alabama Archaeology, Alabama Archaeological Society, Huntsville, Alabama 1990, p. 14