[Federal Register Volume 59, Number 220 (Wednesday, November 16, 1994)]
[Unknown Section]
[Page 0]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: X94-11116]


[[Page Unknown]]

[Federal Register: November 16, 1994]


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DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR
National Park Service

 

Notice of Intent to Repatriate a Cultural Item in the Possession 
of the Arizona State Capitol Museum, Phoenix, AZ

AGENCY: National Park Service, Interior

ACTION: Notice

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    Notice is hereby given under the Native American Graves Protection 
and Repatriation Act of 1990 of the intent to repatriate a cultural 
item presently in the possession of the Arizona State Capitol Museum, 
Phoenix, AZ, that meets the definition of ``sacred object'' under 
section 2 of the act.
    The coiled basket has a flared shape, plaited rim, and dark brown 
design of connected diamonds on a light brown background. Four sets of 
12 carved and painted sticks are sewn equidistant around the interior 
of the basket. The basket was purchased by the State of Arizona in 1938 
from photographer Edward Curtis. The basket was transferred from the 
Research Library, Department of Library, Archives & Public Records in 
1982 to the Museum Division. Museum records identify the basket with 
accession number 1982.035.035.
    Representatives of the Navajo Nation have identified the basket as 
one needed by Navajo religious leaders for the practice of the 
Yeibichai ceremony by present day adherents.
    Based on the above mentioned information, officials of the Arizona 
State Capitol Museum have determined that, pursuant to 25 U.S.C. 3001 
(2), there is a relationship of shared group identity which can be 
reasonably traced between the basket and the Navajo Nation. Officials 
of the Arizona State Capitol Museum have also determined that the 
basket meets the definition of sacred object pursuant to 25 U.S.C. 3001 
(3)(C).
    This notice has been sent to officials of the Navajo Nation, Ramah 
Navajo Chapter, and the Colorado River Indian Tribes. Representatives 
of any other Indian tribe that believes itself to be culturally 
affiliated with this cultural item should contact Michael Carman, 
Museum Director, Arizona State Capitol Museum, 1700 W. Washington, 
Phoenix Arizona 85007 (602)542-4675 before December 16, 1994. 
Repatriation of the cultural item to the Navajo Nation may begin after 
that date if no additional claimants come forward.
Dated: November 10, 1994
Francis P. McManamon
Departmental Consulting Archeologist
Chief, Archeological Assistance Division
[FR Doc. 28294 Filed 11-15-94; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4310-70-F