Iowa State Archaeologist Prepares Native Remains for Return Home
Published Date: 2/11/2026
Notice
Summary
The University of Iowa’s Office of the State Archaeologist has finished checking out some ancient human remains found in Iowa. They’ve confirmed these remains belong to Native American tribes and are ready to return them starting March 13, 2026. This means tribes can now ask to have their ancestors’ remains sent back respectfully, with no costs mentioned.
Analyzed Economic Effects
2 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 0 costs, 0 mixed.
Remains affiliated with Pawnee and Three Tribes
The Office of the State Archaeologist identified a single human tooth as Native American and determined it is culturally affiliated with the Pawnee Nation of Oklahoma and the Three Affiliated Tribes of the Fort Berthold Reservation, North Dakota. Repatriation of these human remains may occur on or after March 13, 2026.
Who may request repatriation and process
The Pawnee Nation of Oklahoma and the Three Affiliated Tribes, any lineal descendant, or any Indian Tribe or Native Hawaiian organization that shows by a preponderance of the evidence that it is culturally affiliated may submit written requests for repatriation. Requests must be sent to Dr. Lara Noldner, Office of the State Archaeologist, 700 S Clinton Street, Iowa City, IA 52242, or email [email protected]; repatriation may occur on or after March 13, 2026, and the OSA BP will resolve competing requests (joint requests count as a single request).
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