Arthur H. Robertson Native American Artifact Collection
Journey into Prehistory
The Arthur H. Robertson Native American Artifact Collection is one of the most comprehensive collections of Native American artifacts in the Eastern United States. It includes approximately 50,000 pieces, primarily sourced from Mecklenburg County, Virginia. The best of the collection is in the MacCallum More Museum. The remainder is on loan to the Virginia Department of Historic Resources where it is used for education and loans to other museums.
Arthur H. Robertson: A Legacy of Passion and Preservation
Arthur H. Robertson began collecting artifacts at 10 years old when he found his first arrowhead on North Main Street in Chase City. His dedication led him to walk 15-18 miles on Sundays in search of artifacts, resulting in a collection that is 99% sourced from Mecklenburg County, Virginia.
He housed his collection in a 12-foot by 16-foot log cabin at the rear of his home, which became a gathering point for historians and archaeologists. His collection gained recognition from the Smithsonian Institution, whose representatives visited and studied the artifacts over the years.
🤓 Fascinating Fact:
Arthur Robertson explained that the smaller war points in his collection were more deadly and penetrating than larger ones, a tactical discovery made by Native American warriors.
Rare Artifacts and Cultural Treasures
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Fluted Point Arrowheads: Including rare Clovis points dating back 12,000 years, used as spearheads during the Stone Age.
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Soapstone Cooking Vessels: Showcasing ancient culinary practices.
- Crystal Points
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A Chunky Stone: Found along the Staunton River
- One person rolls a stone disc (chunkey stone) down a playing field, and players throw spears (chunkey sticks) aiming for where they think the stone will stop. The player whose spear lands closest to the stopped stone without hitting it wins the point.
- Chunkey was played for recreation, to settle disputes, and to solidify social ties and relieve stress, but it also taught skills needed for war and hunting. Because they were time consuming to make, Chunkey Stones were valuable objects and community property. They were not allowed to be used as burial objects.
🤓 Fun Fact:
Spectators were known to gamble on the outcome of the games.
An Immersive Historical Journey
Visitors can explore a wide variety of artifacts, arranged in a way that tells the cultural story of Native Americans who lived in the region thousands of years ago.
Curious to See More?
Discover the full collection of historical artifacts, cultural treasures, and rotating art exhibitions. Unearth stories of the past and be inspired by the creativity of the present.
Plan Your Visit
Make the most of your visit by exploring the rich history and beauty of MacCallum More Museum & Gardens. For detailed information on hours, admission, and directions, visit our Plan Your Visit page.
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