| This ax is an example of the type of ax produced in the American colonies during the period following the 1750s. The shape of the ax from the eye to the cutting edge, (i.e.the bit, is distinctly bell-shaped, and the poll is very pronounced. This type of ax fell into the group commonly called broad axes. They were used more for finishing work rather than for felling trees. This particular ax was discovered in the area of a British encampment just north of the site of the Battle of Saratoga in New York. At an army encampment, there would not have been much "finishing" work for an ax such as this, but it probably was simply one that was available, and put to use. |
