Milwaukee Museum Repatriates Three Historic Native Arrows
Published Date: 6/11/2026
Notice
Summary
The Milwaukee Public Museum plans to return three special Native American arrows to the tribes they belong to, starting July 13, 2026. These arrows, bought over a century ago, hold important cultural meaning for the Native groups connected to them. This repatriation respects Native heritage and follows federal law, with no costs or hazards expected for the public.
Analyzed Economic Effects
2 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 0 costs, 0 mixed.
Museum Finds 3 Arrows Are Cultural Patrimony
The Milwaukee Public Museum has determined that three arrows with obsidian points are objects of cultural patrimony and are culturally affiliated with the Shingle Springs Band of Miwok Indians, Shingle Springs Rancheria (Verona Tract), California, and the Wilton Rancheria, California. The arrows were purchased in 1903 from W.J. Clark of Santa Barbara and were previously attributed to "Digger Indians" and later as "possibly Nisenan."
How and When Tribes Can Request Repatriation
Repatriation may occur on or after July 13, 2026. Any lineal descendant, Indian Tribe, or Native Hawaiian organization may send written requests for repatriation (showing by a preponderance of evidence if not named in the notice) to Dawn Scher Thomae, Milwaukee Public Museum, 800 W. Wells Street, Milwaukee, WI 53233, or by email at [email protected]. If competing requests are received, the museum will decide the most appropriate requestor; joint repatriation requests are treated as a single request.
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