Federal Register / Vol 59, No. 220 / Wednesday, November 16, 1994
/ Notices Page 59246 & 59247
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
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