University to Return Two Ancient Pots to Tribes
Published Date: 6/4/2026
Notice
Summary
Kansas State University plans to return two ancient pots linked to Native American tribes, starting July 6, 2026. These items were part of a collection donated in 1989 and are believed to have been used in Native American burial ceremonies. This repatriation respects tribal traditions and helps honor cultural heritage without any cost impact.
Analyzed Economic Effects
3 provisions identified: 3 benefits, 0 costs, 0 mixed.
Two pots to be returned to Pawnee
Kansas State University intends to return two reconstructed pots that are described as unassociated funerary objects on or after July 6, 2026. K‑State has identified a cultural affiliation with the Pawnee Nation of Oklahoma (with the consent of the Wichita and Affiliated Tribes).
Who may request repatriation
Any lineal descendant, Indian Tribe, or Native Hawaiian organization can submit a written request to Kansas State University to claim the two items if they show, by a preponderance of the evidence, that they are culturally affiliated. If competing requests are received, K‑State will decide the most appropriate requestor; joint requests are treated as a single request. Repatriation may occur on or after July 6, 2026.
No financial cost impact stated
The notice states that the repatriation respects tribal traditions and helps honor cultural heritage "without any cost impact." This repatriation is presented as not affecting costs.
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