Classic Early America Daggers

Authentic Reproductions of 18th & 19th Century American Daggers

Daggers have a very sharp point and usually two sharp edges as it is used as a weapon to thrust or stab. These smaller knives were easily carried, making them a popular choice for hand to hand encounters. Daggers and their offshoot, dirks, were 'unofficial' weapons of the American Revolution. Like belt knives, they didn't follow any universal pattern. During the Revolution, Americans often fought without bayonets and the dagger was substituted as their weapon of choice during close combat. This is especially true early on in the war and particular with militia.

TahChee & His Knife

Tahchee & His Knife

The first thing you notice when viewing this likeness of Tahchee is not the knife but his eyes. In 1833 A P Chouteau wrote “Dutch (Tahchee) is looked upon as the most sagacious and daring war Captain in the Cherokee Nation west of the Mississippi…Dutch may be known, by a slight description among a thousand warriors, by his remarkable black, keen, restless eyes.”
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Making a Parfleche Knife Sheath

Bowie Knife Origins: A Brief History: Many Claim "Creator of Sandbar Bowie" Status

In 1838, Rezin P. Bowie, brother of James Bowie of Alamo fame, claimed that he made the first Bowie knife while the Bowies lived in Avoyelles Parish, Louisiana. He designed it as a hunting knife and gave it to James for protection after his brother had been shot in the famous Sandbar Fight, which began in the Mississippi River across from the rough-and-tumble town of Natchez, Mississippi, in 1827.
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Making a Parfleche Knife Sheath

Making a Parfleche Knife Sheath

Native Americans made knife sheaths and storage containers from specially prepared rawhide referred to by the Europeans as “parfleche” (PAR-flesh). By using this kit, you will learn Indian techniques, including how to paint parfleche by using native tools and materials.
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