DCHP-3

digging stick

DCHP-1 (pre-1967)

Entry from the DCHP-1 (pre-1967)

This entry may contain outdated or offensive information, terms, and examples.

a specially shaped implement, usually of yew wood, used by western Indian women for digging up roots and clams, and in primitive agriculture.

Quotations

1912
Perforated pieces of antler, found in the graves, are exactly like the handles of the digging-stick of to-day.
1926
. . . every morning she took her clam digging-stick, and her clam basket, and went down on the beach. . . .
1958
The roots were harvested by the women of the tribe who used a "digging stick." These implements were regarded as special tools and were highly prized by their owners, usually about two feet long with a curved point and handles made from antler often decorated with incised designs.