Museum to Repatriate Sacred Hawaiian Whale Tooth Pendants
Published Date: 4/16/2026
Notice
Summary
The Dayton Society of Natural History plans to return three sacred Hawaiian whale tooth pendants to Native Hawaiian groups starting May 18, 2026. These special cultural items were donated back in 1949 and are now set to go back home, honoring Native traditions. If you want to learn more or request repatriation, contact DSNH soon!
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Analyzed Economic Effects
3 provisions identified: 3 benefits, 0 costs, 0 mixed.
Return of three sacred whale-tooth pendants
The Dayton Society of Natural History plans to return three sacred Hawaiian whale-tooth items (two lei niho palaoa and one niho palaoa, accession 53-49) that were donated in 1949. Repatriation may occur on or after May 18, 2026 and the items are identified by catalog numbers A-0983, A-0984, and A-0994.
Who may request repatriation and process
Any lineal descendant, Indian Tribe, or Native Hawaiian organization may submit a written request to repatriate the three items by showing, by a preponderance of the evidence, that they are culturally affiliated or a lineal descendant. Requests must be sent to Tracey Tomme, President & CEO, Dayton Society of Natural History, 2600 DeWeese Parkway, Dayton, OH 45414, or email [email protected].
DSNH determination of sacred status and affiliation
The Dayton Society of Natural History determined the three objects are sacred objects needed by a traditional Native Hawaiian religious leader and that there is a cultural connection to the Hui Iwi Kuamo[revaps]o. That determination supports repatriation under the Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act (NAGPRA).
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