Arrowhead Hunting in North Central Texas

American Indian Tribes

• A number of American Indian tribes hunted and migrated through the north central Texas area. One active tribe in the area was the well-known Comanche. As arrowheads were used by both hunters and warriors, the number of tribes passing through the area under different circumstances likely left many arrowheads to be found.

North Central Texas Arrowhead Collecting

• Before beginning any search for arrowheads, a collector must make certain the activity is legal. Collectors must acquire permission to collect on private property and stay on the landowner's property. Collecting on public property without a permit is illegal.

Arrowhead Hunting in Fields

• Once a collector has the needed permission, plowed fields generally are the most productive place to find arrowheads. The agricultural production of north central Texas provides many fields for collecting. Walking recently plowed fields, especially after a rain, can turn up large numbers of arrowheads.

Arrowhead Hunting in Creek Beds

• Then as now, water was important to people in the north central Texas area. Tribes would have spent time near creeks as a source of drinking water and fishing. Arrowheads, items used for fishing and other artifacts might be found in creek beds.

Documenting Significant Finds

• While the average arrowhead will only be of passing interest to professional archaeologists, the amateur collector might come across something unusual and of great significance. Unusual finds should be left alone and the location reported to the landowner. Collectors should encourage landowners to report the finding to the Texas Historical Commission. If a possibly significant item was collected, all possible details of the find should be documented.