Museum Schedules Routine Return of 175 Cultural Items
Published Date: 7/15/2026
Notice
Summary
The Field Museum in Chicago plans to return 175 sacred Native American cultural items to the tribes and Native Hawaiian groups they belong to, starting August 14, 2026. These items include everything from bows and baskets to ceremonial spears and necklaces. This repatriation honors Native heritage and shows the museum’s commitment to doing the right thing—no money changes hands, just respect and care.
Analyzed Economic Effects
4 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 2 costs, 0 mixed.
Field Museum to Return 175 Sacred Items
The Field Museum in Chicago intends to return 175 sacred Native American cultural items to affiliated tribal parties. The museum says repatriation may occur on or after August 14, 2026, and identifies a cultural affiliation with the Pulikla Tribe of Yurok People (previously listed as Resighini Rancheria, California).
Who Can Request Repatriation
Any lineal descendant, Indian Tribe, or Native Hawaiian organization not named in the notice may submit a written request for repatriation if they show by a preponderance of the evidence that they are a lineal descendant or are culturally affiliated. The Field Museum will resolve competing requests and treats joint requests as a single request; repatriation may occur on or after August 14, 2026.
Past Arsenic Testing on Some Items
The notice reports that 57 of the items were tested for arsenic more than 20 years ago and three of those items tested positive. This information is provided to potential requestors and parties handling the objects.
Nine Items Currently Unlocated
Field Museum staff cannot locate nine of the 175 items listed and will continue to look for them. Those nine items are not immediately available for repatriation as of the notice.
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