Maine Museum to Repatriate 17th-Century Trade Beads
Published Date: 7/22/2026
Notice
Summary
The Abbe Museum in Bar Harbor, Maine, plans to return two 17th-century glass trade beads linked to Native American tribes, starting August 21, 2026. These items were found in an old Indian grave and belong to the Wabanaki Tribes of Maine. This repatriation continues the museum’s commitment to respecting Native heritage, with no costs or delays expected.
Analyzed Economic Effects
2 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 0 costs, 0 mixed.
Repatriation of Two Trade Beads
The Abbe Museum intends to return two 17th-century glass trade beads identified as unassociated funerary objects to groups affiliated with the Wabanaki Tribes of Maine. The museum has determined the items are culturally affiliated with the Houlton Band of Maliseet Indians, Mi'kmaq Nation, Passamaquoddy Tribe, and the Penobscot Nation, and repatriation may occur on or after August 21, 2026.
Who May Request Repatriation
Any lineal descendant, Indian Tribe, or Native Hawaiian organization that shows by a preponderance of the evidence that they are culturally affiliated may submit a written request for repatriation. Requests must be sent to Aaron F. Miller, Curator of Exhibits & Collections, Abbe Museum, P.O. Box 286, Bar Harbor, ME 04609, or the listed email; repatriation to an approved requestor may occur on or after August 21, 2026, and competing requests will be resolved by the museum.
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