Benton flaking is a distinctive lithic reduction technique associated with Middle Archaic Benton projectile points, characterized by broad percussion flake removals, step fractures, and occasional oblique-transverse flaking. It reflects a high level of craftsmanship and is diagnostic of Benton-style points found in the Tennessee River Valley and surrounding regions.

🌍 Definition

• Benton Flaking: A flintknapping method used to shape Benton points, involving large and small percussion flakes, often leaving step fractures.
• Pressure Flaking: Frequently applied to create serrations along blade edges.
• Oblique-Transverse Flaking: Sometimes used to refine blade shape.

🔑 Archaeological Contexts

• Benton Points:
  • Named by Madeline Kneberg from finds at the Eva site in Benton County, Tennessee.
  • Typically medium to large, triangular blades with broad stems and lenticular cross-sections.
  • Dates: Middle Archaic period, ~6000–4000 BP.
• Flaking Characteristics:
  • Broad, shallow percussion scars.
  • Collateral and oblique flaking patterns.
  • Fine micro-flaking on edges in some cache examples.
• Caches & Craftsmanship:
  • Benton caches reveal extraordinary skill, with consistent flaking patterns across multiple points, suggesting specialized workshops.

📚 Importance in Anthropology

• Technological Insight: Benton flaking demonstrates advanced control of percussion and pressure techniques.
• Cultural Identity: Distinctive flaking styles help archaeologists identify Benton points and associate them with Middle Archaic cultures of the Southeast U.S.
• Comparative Value: Benton flaking contrasts with Clovis fluting or Dalton basal thinning, highlighting regional technological traditions.
• Material Culture: Benton points were likely multifunctional—used as weapons, tools, and possibly prestige items in caches.

In short: Benton flaking is the hallmark lithic technique of Middle Archaic Benton points, involving broad percussion removals, step fractures, and fine pressure serrations, reflecting both functional design and cultural identity.