Title: Manufactured Stone

Author(s): J.C. McClenahan

Publication: Journal Proceedings

Volume: 2

Issue: 1

Appears on pages(s): 267-274

Keywords: none

DOI: 10.14359/16411

Date: 1/1/1906

Abstract:
The first evidence of manufactured stone, of which we have any knowledge was handed down to use by the pre-historic races. The mound-builders and cliff-dwellers left us large quantities of wares made out of crushed shells, sand and clay that show a wonderful degree of perfection, the shells gave them an almost pure carbonate of lime, which in turn gave them the means of cohension; these wares consisting of kettles, water jugs, urns, vases, etc., were made by hand while in a plastic state, and hardened by heat and frequent sprinkling, thus producing crystalization. Not only did these semi-civilized beings show considerable knowledge in the handling of this material, but they displayed much skill in the formation and in the ornamenation of their wares.