Museum Returns Century-Old Pipe to Tribes
Published Date: 6/11/2026
Notice
Summary
The American Museum of Natural History plans to return seven important cultural items, including a medicine pipe, to Native American tribes starting July 13, 2026. These items have deep cultural meaning and were originally acquired over a century ago. This repatriation honors Native heritage and ensures respectful handling of these treasured objects.
Analyzed Economic Effects
3 provisions identified: 3 benefits, 0 costs, 0 mixed.
Museum to Return Seven Cultural Items
The American Museum of Natural History intends to repatriate seven cultural items (a medicine pipe and its wrappings) that have cultural affiliation with the Blackfeet Tribe. The repatriation may occur on or after July 13, 2026, and the items were accessioned by the Museum in 1905.
Who Can Request Repatriation and Process
Lineal descendants, Indian Tribes, or Native Hawaiian organizations may submit written requests for repatriation by showing, by a preponderance of the evidence, that they are lineal descendants or culturally affiliated. If competing requests are received, the Museum must determine the most appropriate requestor; joint requests count as a single request.
Handling Advisory for Potentially Hazardous Items
Museum records show that, in the past, potentially hazardous pesticides were applied to collections and records do not identify which objects were treated or which chemicals were used. People handling these items should follow advice from industrial hygienists or medical personnel with specialized occupational health training.
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