A collaborative effort by Simeon
England, Kyle Willyard, and Shelly Gier, this tomahawk is heavily based on England’s
research into early belt axes, referred to as “polled tomahawks” in the period,
carried by backcountry frontiersmen. Though a bit more refined than what would
commonly be seen on the frontier, the engraving and level of finish are similar
to many existing examples of pipe tomahawks made by colonial gunsmiths.
England
and Willyard worked together in forging the tomahawk, which has a punched eye
and hammer welded bit of high carbon steel. They finished the head with a light
polish and decorative file work. The head is hafted to a long, slender, and
slightly curved hickory handle. The entire tomahawk has been given a light,
aged finish. Willyard engraved the tomahawk with a moon, floral designs, and a
sunburst that reflect the same theme Shelly Gier used for the leather carrier.
Gier
crafted the sheath with a rising or setting sun, depending on the wearer’s
perspective. It features three colors with delicate red scallops as a welt and
strap contrast. The sheath is formed to the axe. On the strap is a signed brass
buckle.
For more information on the work of the artists, contact
them directly:
Simeon England: simeonengland@gmail.com
Shelly Gier: shellycamps1790@gmail.com
Kyle Willyard: kyle@olddominionforge.com
Text by Simeon England with photos supplied by the CLF.
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