Pennsylvania Museum Returns Sacred Item to Tribes
Published Date: 12/19/2025
Notice
Summary
The State Museum of Pennsylvania plans to return a sacred Onondaga mask to the Onondaga Nation starting January 20, 2026. This mask, kept since 1932, is important for Native American religious ceremonies. If anyone else wants to request its return, they need to contact the museum soon.
Analyzed Economic Effects
2 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 0 costs, 0 mixed.
Onondaga Mask Repatriation Scheduled
The State Museum of Pennsylvania intends to return one sacred Onondaga mask (accession 32.35), which it has housed since about 1932, to the Onondaga Nation. The repatriation may occur on or after January 20, 2026.
Right to Submit Competing Repatriation Requests
Any lineal descendant, Indian Tribe, or Native Hawaiian organization not identified in the notice may submit a written request showing by a preponderance of the evidence that they are culturally affiliated to seek repatriation of the mask. Requests must be sent to Barbara Frederick at the State Museum of Pennsylvania (300 North Street, Harrisburg, PA 17120) and the museum will resolve any competing requests before repatriation, which may occur on or after January 20, 2026.
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