University Returns Ancient Native American Remains After Decades in Storage
Published Date: 1/7/2026
Notice
Summary
Mercyhurst University has finished checking its collection and found human remains and objects linked to Native American tribes. These items, taken from Ohio decades ago, are now ready to be returned starting February 6, 2026. If you’re part of a tribe or group connected to these remains, you can request their return soon—no money changes hands, just respect and care.
Analyzed Economic Effects
3 provisions identified: 3 benefits, 0 costs, 0 mixed.
Human Remains and Objects Ready for Return
Mercyhurst University identified the physical remains of one Native American individual (OH-HO-TIN-0001) and two associated funerary objects (OH-HO-AFO-TIN-0001 and OH-HO-AFO-TIN-0002) removed in 1935 from Lehman Mound in Hocking County, Ohio. These items are available for repatriation on or after February 6, 2026.
Who Can Request Repatriation
Written requests for repatriation may be submitted by any one or more of the Indian Tribes or Native Hawaiian organizations named in this notice, or by any lineal descendant or Indian Tribe or Native Hawaiian organization not named that shows by a preponderance of the evidence cultural affiliation. Send requests to Anne Marjenin, Mercyhurst University, 501 East 38th Street, Erie, PA 16546, or by email to [email protected].
Competing Requests and Joint Repatriation Rule
If more than one request for repatriation is received, Mercyhurst University must determine the most appropriate requestor before repatriation. Requests made jointly are treated as a single request and are not considered competing.
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