Native American Remains to be Repatriated to Cheyenne and Arapaho Tribes
Norman,OK – September 16,2025 – The Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History (SNOMNH) has announced its intention to repatriate human remains discovered to be culturally affiliated with the Cheyenne and Arapaho Tribes,Oklahoma. The proclamation, made via a notice published today in the Federal Register, fulfills obligations under the Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act (NAGPRA).
The remains consist of human hair incorporated into two dolls, accessioned by the museum in 1982 and 1947 respectively. One doll originated from the University of Oklahoma art Museum, while the other was part of a collection amassed by a merchant, William H. Munger, who resided within Cheyenne and Arapaho territory in the late 19th century.
“This is a critically importent step in honoring the ancestral connections of the Cheyenne and Arapaho people,” said Zachary garrett, NAGPRA Program Coordinator at SNOMNH. “Through thorough research and direct consultation with tribal representatives, we have confirmed the cultural affiliation and are preparing for repatriation.”
Past context & Potential Hazards
The museum’s notice also details the historical context of the artifacts and acknowledges potential hazards associated with their preservation. In the past, the SNOMNH utilized chemicals like Paradichlorobenzene, Naphthalene, and Vapona for pest control within its Ethnology Collection. While thes substances were not in direct contact with the objects, the museum notes the possibility of residual chemical presence due to past fumigation practices. This details is being provided transparently to the Tribes as part of the repatriation process.
Repatriation Timeline & Contact Information
