Restorative Heritage Consultants

We are happy to provide some services remotely (where possible) while others require us to travel to your institution. The cost of each of these services vary by size and level of involvement. Please reach out to us directly to set up a free consultation at restorativeheritage@gmail.com

HUMAN REMAINS ANALYSIS: We provide osteological analysis of forensic cases (Dr. McCrane only) or archaeological collections. For this, we can provide detailed osteological reports of bioprofiles (age, sex, ancestry, trauma, pathology). These kinds of analyses are especially helpful in cases with legacy collections in museums/universities where provenance is unknown. Ancestry estimation is also often necessary in identifying potential descendant communities for teaching and donated skeletal remains with unknown origin which institutions wish to repatriate. Additionally, we specialize in identification and sorting of fragmentary human remains, and commingled assemblages (bones of multiple individuals). Where possible, we prioritize establishing Duty of Care agreements before conducting analysis.

CONSULTATION FACILITATION: There are over 574 Federally Recognized Tribes in the United States, and over 630 First Nations in Canada. It can be a very daunting task to know which are the correct descendant communities and Tribal Nation to facilitate a return. We assist in the proper identification of and facilitate discussions between Native Nations and other descendant communities with museums, government agencies, universities, private institutions toward the respectful return of human skeletal collections to their descendant communities. We are also able to provide guidance on archival procedures, handling and tracking of relevant documentation including accession records and meeting notes, etc. for ease of future access. 

NATIVE AMERICAN GRAVES PROTECTION AND REPATRIATION ACT (NAGPRA) COMPLIANCE: We are available to consult on the technical assistance related to NAGPRA compliance including conducting a needs assessment, survey of collections, audit of current compliance status, & creation of a strategic plan toward ensuring complete compliance with 43 CFR parts 9 and 10. We are also able to provide guidance on archival procedures, handling and tracking of notices and guidance on future steps.

GRANT PROPOSAL AND DEVELOPMENT: We understand that this type of work can be especially costly for Native Nations and Museums alike. We are happy to assist in the identification of funding sources and the grant proposal drafting and development to defray these costs. THE 2026 DEADLINES FOR THE NPS C&D GRANTS ARE EXPECTED TO BE DUE THIS SPRING. PLEASE REACH OUT ASAP IF YOU WOULD LIKE ASSISTANCE WITH THIS (only US institutions and Tribal Nations are eligible to apply).

REPATRIATION AND DISPOSITION OF HUMAN REMAINS AND CULTURAL ITEMS: After the extensive process of documentation and connecting with descendant communities, the difficult work of returning these human remains and cultural items to their homelands. This involves a great deal of legal maneuvering, permitting, and paperwork. We are happy to facilitate this process for you to ensure a smooth transition and the respectful return of Ancestors from international institutions back to North American descendant communities.

Although we are not always able to provide pro bono work, when possible we provide these services on a as needed basis free-of-charge to Tribal Nations. Please reach out directly to submit your inquiry.