Shaman's Mask Repatriated: Maine Museum Sends Sacred Wood Back to Tribe
Published Date: 1/27/2026
Notice
Summary
The Wilson Museum in Castine, Maine, plans to return a sacred wooden medicine man's mask to the Jamestown S'Klallam Tribe starting February 26, 2026. This mask is important for traditional Native American religious practices. If other tribes or descendants believe they have a claim, they can request repatriation by contacting the museum.
Analyzed Economic Effects
3 provisions identified: 3 benefits, 0 costs, 0 mixed.
Wilson Museum plans repatriation to tribe
The Wilson Museum in Castine, Maine intends to return one sacred wooden medicine man's mask to the Jamestown S'Klallam Tribe. The museum states the object is a sacred ceremonial item needed for present-day traditional Native American religious practice and intends repatriation on or after February 26, 2026.
Other tribes may request repatriation
Any lineal descendant, Indian Tribe, or Native Hawaiian organization not identified in the notice may send a written request for repatriation to Abby Dunham at the Wilson Museum (P.O. Box 196, 120 Perkins Street, Castine, ME 04421 or email [email protected]). Requestors must show by a preponderance of the evidence that they are a lineal descendant or culturally affiliated organization; requests may be submitted before repatriation occurs on or after February 26, 2026.
Museum rules for competing or joint claims
If competing repatriation requests are received, the Wilson Museum must determine the most appropriate requestor prior to repatriation; requests for joint repatriation are treated as a single request. The museum is responsible for sending a copy of this notice to the Indian Tribes, Native Hawaiian organizations, and other consulting parties identified in the notice.
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