Mark Twain Forest Caves Reveal Native Relics Ready for Homecoming
Published Date: 4/2/2026
Notice
Summary
The Mark Twain National Forest has finished checking and listing Native American human remains and related items found in Missouri caves and rockshelters. These remains and objects will be returned to the affiliated tribes starting May 4, 2026. This important step respects Native cultures and helps bring these items back home without any cost to the tribes.
Analyzed Economic Effects
2 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 0 costs, 0 mixed.
Repatriation to The Osage Nation
The Mark Twain National Forest determined that human remains representing nine Native American individuals and 1,153 associated funerary objects are culturally affiliated with The Osage Nation and may be returned to that Tribe. Repatriation may occur on or after May 4, 2026.
Who Can Request Repatriation and Timing
Any of the Indian Tribes or Native Hawaiian organizations named in the notice, or any lineal descendant or Tribe that proves cultural affiliation by a preponderance of the evidence, may submit a written request for repatriation. Requests must be sent to the Forest Supervisor at the address or email listed in the notice, repatriation may occur on or after May 4, 2026, and the Mark Twain National Forest will resolve competing requests (joint requests are treated as a single request).
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