Contemporary Makers: 2019 CLA Live Auction: Polled Tomahawk and Sheath by Simeon England, Kyle Willyard, and Shelly Gier

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.