Santa Barbara museum to return Native human remains and cultural items
Published Date: 3/16/2026
Notice
Summary
The Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History has finished checking its collection and found human remains and objects linked to Native American tribes. Starting April 15, 2026, these remains and items can be returned to the tribes. This is a big step in respecting Native heritage and following important laws.
Analyzed Economic Effects
2 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 0 costs, 0 mixed.
Museum Links Remains to Two Tribes
The Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History determined that the human remains (at least nine individuals) and 189 associated funerary objects are culturally affiliated with the Santa Ynez Band of Chumash Mission Indians of the Santa Ynez Reservation, California, and the Tejon Indian Tribe. This determination identifies which tribes are recognized as connected to these remains and objects.
Repatriation Eligible Starting April 15, 2026
The identified human remains and 189 associated funerary objects may be returned beginning April 15, 2026. Written repatriation requests may be sent to Luke Swetland, President and CEO, Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History, 2559 Puesta del Sol, Santa Barbara, CA 93105, or by the museum email; requests may be made by the named tribes, any lineal descendant, or other tribes/organizations that show cultural affiliation by a preponderance of the evidence.
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