Museum to Return Ancient New York Remains to Tribes
Published Date: 7/2/2026
Notice
Summary
The University of Pennsylvania Museum has finished checking its collection and found human remains linked to Native American tribes. These remains, from three individuals found in New York long ago, can be returned to the tribes starting August 3, 2026. If you want to request the return, contact the museum soon—this is a respectful step toward honoring Native heritage.
Analyzed Economic Effects
2 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 0 costs, 0 mixed.
Three Mohawk Remains Identified
The University of Pennsylvania Museum identified human remains representing at least three individuals (one adult male and two adult females) as culturally affiliated with the Saint Regis Mohawk Tribe. The remains were recovered between 1836 and 1838 from a Mohawk cemetery near Manheim, Herkimer County, New York.
How and When Repatriation Can Occur
Repatriation of these human remains may occur on or after August 3, 2026. Written requests for repatriation must be sent to Dr. Christopher Woods at the University of Pennsylvania Museum; eligible requestors include the Indian Tribe identified in this notice (Saint Regis Mohawk Tribe) and any lineal descendant or tribe/organization that proves cultural affiliation by a preponderance of the evidence.
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