Field Museum to Return Native American Hair Clippings to Known Descendant
Published Date: 5/12/2026
Notice
Summary
The Field Museum in Chicago has finished checking its collection and found hair clippings from Sargent Kahanamoku, a Native American individual, with a known family member ready to claim them. Starting June 11, 2026, the museum can return these remains to the rightful descendant. This means the museum is doing its part to respect Native American heritage and follow important laws.
Analyzed Economic Effects
3 provisions identified: 3 benefits, 0 costs, 0 mixed.
Known Lineal Descendant Can Receive Remains
If you are the known lineal descendant identified (Didi Robello), the Field Museum may return the hair clippings of Sargent Kahanamoku to you on or after June 11, 2026.
Other Lineal Descendants May Request Repatriation
Any other lineal descendant may submit a written request showing by a preponderance of the evidence that they are a lineal descendant; the Field Museum must determine the most appropriate requestor if competing requests are received, and joint requests are treated as a single request.
How to Request Repatriation
Written requests for repatriation must be sent to the Field Museum authorized representative (June Carpenter) at 1400 South Lake Shore Drive, Chicago, IL 60605 or via the provided email; repatriation may occur on or after June 11, 2026.
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