Milwaukee Museum to Return Sacred Items: Standard NAGPRA Stuff
Published Date: 9/9/2026
Notice
Summary
In accordance with the Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act (NAGPRA), the Milwaukee Public Museum intends to repatriate certain cultural items that meet the definition of sacred objects and that have a cultural affiliation with the Indian Tribes or Native Hawaiian organizations in this notice.
Analyzed Economic Effects
3 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 1 costs, 0 mixed.
Repatriation of 161 Sacred Hawaiian Objects
If you are a lineal descendant, Indian Tribe, or Native Hawaiian organization affiliated with the Hui Iwi Kuamoʻo, the Milwaukee Public Museum intends to repatriate 161 sacred objects. The museum says repatriation may occur on or after October 9, 2026.
Who Can Request Repatriation and Timing
Any lineal descendant, Indian Tribe, or Native Hawaiian organization may submit a written request for these items; requests must be sent to the Milwaukee Public Museum representative named in the notice. The museum will consider requests and may repatriate the items on or after October 9, 2026; if there are competing requests the museum will decide the most appropriate requestor, and joint requests count as a single request.
Possible Chemical Treatment of Textile Items
The museum states it has no specific information that the listed items were treated with pesticides or preservatives, but notes some textiles in its collection were treated with chemicals in the early 20th century. Requestors and custodians should be aware that some returned clothing or textiles may have been chemically treated.
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