Prehistoric human remains found along shoreline of Lake Michigan at Sleeping Bear Dunes

Human remains, which are believed to date back to prehistoric times, were found in Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore.

An area resident found the remains on the shoreline of Lake Michigan in the summer of 2017.

The remains were returned to the National Lakeshore in February 2019 and then sent to Western Michigan University. The remains were analyzed using non-invasive osteological analysis.

Park officials said the remains have characteristics of Native American populations. The remains could not be identified as a known individual.

The discovery became public when park officials released a public notice about the finding in several newspapers.

Officials determined that the remains were removed from lands that are recognized as the aboriginal land of The Tribes.

Officials are asking for representatives from any other Indian Tribe or Native Hawaiian organization that wishes to claim ownership or control over the remains to reach out.

If no additional claimants come forward to claim the remains, then the disposition of the remains to The Tribes will proceed after Jan. 24, 2021.

Sleeping Bear Dunes officials are responsible for notifying The Tribes that a notice has been published.

To claim ownership, contact: Scott Tucker, Superintendent, Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, 9922 Front Street, Empire, MI 49630, telephone (231) 326-4702, before January 24, 2021.

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