Only thing that comes to Mind is Mid 1700, When the Colonists
Supplied Rum Illegally to the Indians, and maybe a Hatchet to
open the Barrel . & since the Indians Felt Entitled, they would Kill, Scalp & steal it when told NO More ! Unfortunately, Would only be a stone Hatchet head & rusted Barrel Straps left.
Of course What Era Hatchet type may help date the find also
whether indian, Colonist or more Recent.
Yeah it would just mean you found a carving of a hatchet and a barrel without a little further info. Pics would be good. Also maybe the general area you found them cause the history of the place will help. I couldn't speculate on it, but sounds interesting.