Sonoma University Returns Massive 79,000-Item Native Trove to Tribes
Published Date: 4/9/2026
Notice
Summary
Sonoma State University is getting ready to return over 79,000 cultural items, like stone tools and shells, to Native American tribes connected to Lake County, California. These treasures have been at the university since the late 1970s and will start going back on or after May 11, 2026. This important step honors Native heritage and respects their cultural history without any cost to the tribes.
Analyzed Economic Effects
2 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 0 costs, 0 mixed.
Return of 79,001 Cultural Items
If you are affiliated with the Big Valley Band of Pomo Indians or are a lineal descendant, Sonoma State University intends to return 79,001 cultural items (stone tools, shells, faunal bone, and related artifacts) that have been housed at the university. The repatriation may occur on or after May 11, 2026, and the notice states the return will be made without cost to the tribes.
Who May Request Repatriation
Any lineal descendant, Indian Tribe, or Native Hawaiian organization can submit a written request for these cultural items by showing, by a preponderance of the evidence, that they are culturally affiliated. Sonoma State University will decide among competing requests and considers joint repatriation requests as a single request.
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