University to Return Ancient Remains to Tribes
Published Date: 6/22/2026
Notice
Summary
Murray State University Archaeology Lab has finished checking some Native American human remains found in Tennessee and linked them to the Cherokee, Chickasaw, and Muscogee (Creek) Nations. Starting July 22, 2026, these remains can be officially returned to the tribes. This is a respectful step to honor Native American heritage with no costs involved.
Analyzed Economic Effects
6 provisions identified: 6 benefits, 0 costs, 0 mixed.
Tribal Cultural Affiliation Identified
The Murray State University Archaeology Laboratory determined the human remains are culturally affiliated with the Cherokee Nation; Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians; The Chickasaw Nation; and The Muscogee (Creek) Nation.
Repatriation Eligible Starting July 22, 2026
The notice states that repatriation of these human remains may occur on or after July 22, 2026, allowing transfer of the remains to an authorized requestor beginning that date.
Who May Request Repatriation
Written repatriation requests may be submitted by any one or more of the Indian Tribes named in the notice, or by any lineal descendant, Indian Tribe, or Native Hawaiian organization not named if they show by a preponderance of the evidence that they are affiliated.
Competing and Joint Request Rules
If competing repatriation requests are received, Murray State University Archaeology Laboratory must determine the most appropriate requestor before repatriation; requests for joint repatriation are treated as a single request, not competing requests.
Where to Send Repatriation Requests
Written requests for repatriation must be sent to Anthony Ortmann at Murray State University Archaeology Laboratory, 334 Blackburn Sciences Building, Murray State University, Murray, KY 42071, or by email to [email protected].
Remains Have No Funerary Objects or Hazards
The inventory states the human remains represent at least one individual, have no associated funerary objects, and there is no known exposure to hazardous substances.
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Previous / Next Documents
Previous: 2026-12394, Notice of Inventory Completion: Murray State University Archaeology Laboratory, Murray, KY
Murray State University Archaeology Lab has finished checking and listing some Native American human remains found in Kentucky. These remains, linked to local tribes, can be returned to them starting July 22, 2026. This process helps honor Native American heritage with no costs or risks involved for the public.
Next: 2026-12396, Notice of Inventory Completion: Murray State University Archaeology Laboratory, Murray, KY
Murray State University Archaeology Lab finished checking human remains found in Kentucky and confirmed they belong to Native American ancestors, specifically linked to the Shawnee and Chickasaw Tribes. Starting July 22, 2026, these remains can be officially returned to the tribes. This is a respectful step to honor Native American heritage with no costs involved for the public.