University Finds Osage-Linked Scalp Among Ancestors Awaiting Repatriation
Published Date: 10/22/2026
Notice
Summary
The University of Kansas has finished checking its collection and found human remains linked to Native American tribes. These remains, a scalp with a history tied to the Osage tribe, can be returned to the tribes starting November 23, 2026. If you want to request the return, contact the university soon—no money changes hands, just respect and care.
Analyzed Economic Effects
5 provisions identified: 4 benefits, 1 costs, 0 mixed.
University identifies remains as Osage-affiliated
The University of Kansas identified human remains (a scalp) as the physical remains of one Native American individual and determined there is a cultural affiliation with The Osage Nation. The scalp was transferred to the university on June 7, 1956 and is reported to have been given to Alexander Rankin by an Osage Chief around 1872.
Repatriation available starting November 23, 2026
Repatriation of the human remains described in this notice may occur on or after November 23, 2026. That is the earliest date the University of Kansas can transfer the remains to an approved requestor.
Who may request repatriation
Written requests for repatriation may be submitted by any one or more of the Indian Tribes or Native Hawaiian organizations identified in the notice, or by a lineal descendant or other tribe/organization that shows by a preponderance of the evidence that they are culturally affiliated. The University of Kansas will accept requests that meet these criteria.
How to submit a written repatriation request
Requests for repatriation must be sent in writing to John Curran, University of Kansas, Office of Audit, Risk & Compliance, 1450 Jayhawk Blvd., 345 Strong Hall, Lawrence, KS 66045, or by email to [email protected]. The notice identifies this contact as the authorized representative for submitting requests.
Competing or joint repatriation requests handled by KU
If competing repatriation requests are received, the University of Kansas must determine the most appropriate requestor prior to repatriation. Requests for joint repatriation are treated as a single request, not competing requests.
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