Washington University Returns 1970s Native Artifacts to Local Tribes
Published Date: 1/28/2026
Notice
Summary
Western Washington University’s Archaeology Department plans to return 36 sacred and cultural items to Native American tribes connected to Whatcom County, WA. These items include tools and ceremonial objects collected during research in the 1970s. The repatriation can start on or after February 27, 2026, with no costs mentioned, making this a respectful step toward honoring Native heritage.
Analyzed Economic Effects
4 provisions identified: 3 benefits, 0 costs, 1 mixed.
Repatriation of 36 Sacred Items
Western Washington University intends to return 36 sacred and cultural items (bone, stone, antler, glass, clay tools, red ochre, and ceremonial objects) that have cultural affiliation with the Lummi Tribe and the Nooksack Indian Tribe. The repatriation may occur on or after February 27, 2026.
Who May Request Repatriation
Any lineal descendant, Indian Tribe, or Native Hawaiian organization not already named may submit a written request for repatriation that shows by a preponderance of the evidence they are a lineal descendant or culturally affiliated. Requests must be sent to Dr. Judith Pine at Western Washington University and repatriation may occur on or after February 27, 2026.
Competing and Joint Repatriation Requests
If competing requests for the same cultural items are received, the Western Washington University Archaeological Repository must decide the most appropriate requestor before repatriation. Requests filed as joint repatriation are treated as a single request.
Repository Findings and Collection History
The WWU Archaeological Repository determined the 36 items meet the definitions of sacred objects or objects of cultural patrimony under NAGPRA, and notes that 12 items were collected in 1978, five in 1976, and 19 are from a donated Sturgeon Collection. The repository reports no information that the collections were treated with potentially hazardous substances.
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