Archaeological Collection

Please note: We do not allow research on these remains

​

The Maxwell Museum’s Laboratory of Human Osteology houses a large number of skeletal remains from prehistoric Native American sites in New Mexico and surrounding regions. Many of these remains are stored at the Maxwell on behalf of the Museum of New Mexico. The majority of the remaining individuals were excavated by University of New Mexico archaeologists, physical anthropologists, and/or field school personnel prior to 1960. Archaeological collections include both prehistoric and historic components. 

All of our prehistoric Native American remains have been registered per NAGPRA (Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act) legislation. The Laboratory of Human Osteology is in compliance with NAGPRA and has completed several repatriations for Native American groups in New Mexico. The prehistoric collections are kept in the laboratory repository, which is protected by a locked door and an alarm system. Remains are always treated with the utmost respect and care, and kept in archival boxes. Photography of prehistoric remains is not permitted under any circumstances.

Research can only be conducted on historic (post-Spanish contact) remains.  To conduct research on this collection, you must first must submit a research request. For information about this collection, please contact the Senior Collections Manager of Human Osteology and the Collections Committee. Many sites within this collection are held on repository from local, state, and federal institutions and may require contacting additional institutions for permissions.

​

For questions regarding NAGPRA and the Museum's efforts to repatriate ancestors, please contact our NAPGRA Coordinator.