Recovered Items

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UPDATE!!! Two Weavings Recovered, One still Missing

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We’ve just been informed that two of the textiles were recovered several years ago.
Unfortunately, one is still missing.

STILL MISSING: 1930s Navajo Eye Dazzler Eagle Feather Weaving

Originally stolen on July 8, 2003

36″ x 72″, Red/White/Blue, Purchased 6/01 Cisco’s, Coeur d’Alene, Idaho

On the morning of July 8th, 2003, I had three Navajo Rugs stolen from my home on the eastside in Santa Fe, New Mexico. I have circulated photos to some of the area dealers, but also wanted to register on your site to broaden the search. The Santa Fe Police Report number is 03016807. The Detective assigned to the burglary is Danny Ramirez. I’d appreciate any assistance you can provide in returning these items, Marina Baroff, 1730 Kearsarge Road, La Jolla, ca. 92037, 858-454-2698 H, 619-528-5819 W.

UPDATE

RECOVERED in 2016!!!
Contemporary Navajo Raised Outline Teec Nos Pos Weaving

40″ x 62″, Tan/Green/Peach, Purchased 9/88 Cristof’s, Santa Fe, New Mexico

RECOVERED in 2004!!
Contemporary Navajo Storm Pattern Weaving

25″ x 33″, Brown/White/Black, Purchased 4/00, Garland’s Navajo Rugs, Sedona, Arizona

RECOVERED - Navajo Silver Necklace with Naja

UPDATE 8-25-21: This item has been recovered.

The pictured necklace has been reported as being stolen from a residence in Katy, TX on June 29, 2021.

The necklace is approximately 12 to 14 inches in length and is set with turquoise and mother of pearl.

If you have any information regarding the whereabouts of this item please contact:

Douglas Bell
Deputy Constable #1322
Douglas.belljr@fortbendcountytx.gov
Office 281-238-1430
Police Case # 21-27421

Click to enlarge photo.

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Stolen / Missing in Transit: 3 Navajo Textiles - Santa Fe, NM

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UPDATE - The first textile listed below has been recovered. The other two textiles are still missing.

In mid August of 2020 three Navajo textiles shipped via Fedex from the Hamptons, NY to Shiprock Santa Fe, Santa Fe, NM went missing in transit.

The package weighed 28 lbs when it was first scanned and arrived weighing 5 lbs when it was received by Shiprock Santa Fe.

The three missing textiles are shown below.

Please report any sightings or knowledge of these pieces to Paul at Shiprock Santa Fe 505-982-8478 or paul@shiprocksantafe.com

RECOVERED - Navajo all natural textile

c.1890 - 83” x 49”

Navajo Germantown pictorial textile

c. 1890 - 97” x 56”

Navajo all natural pictorial textile

c.1900 - 94” x 42"


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STOLEN - Sculpture & Pottery - Albuquerque, NM

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UPDATE - The Namingha sculpture has been recovered. The other listed items are still missing.

The following items have been reported stolen from a residence in Albuquerque, NM.
The items were taken between November 2019 to January 2020.

  • Ceramic vase with red on black design by Laura Tafoya (Santa Clara), 6.5” x 4”

  • Flute Player seed jar by Carolyn Concho (Acoma), 2” diameter

  • Seed pot by Diane Lewis (Acoma), 2” diameter

  • Lizard climbing out of seed jar by Sharon Lewis (Acoma) 2.25” diameter

  • ITEM RECOVERED!!
    “Butterfly Maiden or Pahlik Mana” Bronze, 16” high, #4/12
    by Dan Namingha

  • “Waiting for a Ride”
    Bronze, 13” high, #2/20
    by Allan Houser

  • “Standing Owl”
    Bronze, 4” high,
    from an edition of 250
    by Allan Houser

  • Blackware vase with rain cloud design, 3 ⅞” tall, by Charles Lewis

  • Carved Frog Fetish, 1 1/4” long
    Artist unknown

(click below for larger image)

If you have any information about these items, please contact the Albuquerque Police Department at (505) 242-2677

Police report # 200005642

or

Ira Rubin at 305-956-8016

RECOVERED - Contemporary Navajo Weaving

Recovered in 2012

 

One of two contemporary Navajo Weavings that were stolen from a Santa Fe, NM Gallery on May 28, 2011 has now been recovered:

The first weaving (shown) has been recovered. If you have any information about the missing weavings, please contact Toni Zupanc 505-982-2805 or emailrivertradingpost@gmail.com, the Santa Fe police report number is Case #11-007771, the police department phone number is 505-428-3710, officer Nick Wood.

RECOVERED - Haida Mask

Haida Mask Stolen from the Vancouver, BC, Canada Room of a Quadriplegic Man on Feb 28th, 2009 Now Recovered as of 3-18-2009

Canwest News Service March 18, 2009

VANCOUVER – A valuable native mask stolen from a quadriplegic man in
Vancouver has been found.

Vancouver police Const. Jana McGuinness said the mask has been recovered
and more details will be released later Wednesday.

The mask, with an estimated value of $10,000 was stolen from Norman
Ryall, 52. He was asleep in his room at a centre for the disabled when
the theft occurred.

Ryall has been collecting native art for years and displayed it on the
wall of his room. He has lived at the centre since he was two.

Ryall said he treasured the mask, because it was carved by his friend,
Haida artist Don Yeomans.

For details of the theft, seehttp://www.ctvbc.ctv.ca/servlet/an/local/CTVNews/20090316/bc_hospital_theft_090316/20090316/?hub=BritishColumbiaHome

For details of the recovery, seehttp://www.canada.com/Vancouver%20police%20recover%20stolen%20mask/1402748/story.html

RECOVERED - San Ildefonso Pottery

Traditional Pottery Stolen from Scottsdale, AZ Gallery, March 29, 2008 Has Now Been Recovered

On March 29, 2008, two fine pieces of traditional Pueblo Pottery were stolen from a Scottsdale, Arizona, gallery.

The pot on the left is a San Ildefonso wedding vase, approx. 9″ x 7″, circa 1915. On the right is a San Ildefonso Tunyo Polychrome jar, 6.5″ x 7.5″, circa 1915. Both pieces are from the Allan Hayes collection.

These two pieces of pottery were recovered when a sharp-eyed ATADA member reported that someone was in the process of trying to sell these pots to him. The suspect in this case is now serving a 16 month sentence in the California penal system.

RECOVERED - Items Stolen from Agate Fossil Beds National Monument

ItemsStolenfrom Agate Fossil Beds National Monument Museum in Gering, Nebraska, July 7-8, 2007 Now Recovered

Investigators working in conjunction with the National Park Service (NPS) have found a duffle bag containing items that were stolen from Agate Fossil Beds National Monument last week. The specific location where the duffle bag was found has not been disclosed, except that it was in northeastern Colorado. a Museum Curator from the National Park Service Intermountain Regional Office in Denver, CO assisted with conducting an inventory and assessment of the bags contents. At this time, all of the items have been accounted for and appear to be undamaged.

Park Superintendent Blanca Alvarez Stransky said, “The items that were taken from the collection are priceless. They are important pieces that tell part of the story of American history.” She added, “The staff here at Agate would like to thank all the agencies involved for their hard work and vigilance in recovering these artifacts.”

On Tuesday July 10th, maintenance workers at the park arrived at work to discover that sometime during the previous evening the Visitor Center had been burglarized. Items from the James Cook-Red Cloud Collection had been taken from the museum display cases.

Two brothers, Gary Paul Garihan and Maxwell M. Garihan, are being held in federal custody in Denver, Colorado. They have been charged by the United States Attorney’s Office, District of Colorado with Interstate Transportation of Stolen Goods, in violation of Title 18, United States Code. Both men will be in court next week for additional court proceedings.

Special Agents and Law Enforcement Rangers from both the NPS Intermountain and Midwest Regions have been coordinating their efforts along with the other agencies due to the large geographic and multi-state area this crime occurred in. The investigation and recovery effort has been a collaborative effort with numerous law enforcement agencies including: the National Park Service, Nebraska State Patrol, Federal Bureau of Investigation, United States Park Police, Colorado Division of Wildlife, Logan County (Colorado) Sheriffs Office, Sioux County (Neb.) Sheriff, Omaha (Neb.) Police Department and the United States Attorneys Offices for the Districts of Colorado and Nebraska.

Here follows the ATADA posting on this theft –

During the weekend of July 7-8, 2007, there was a major theft from the Agate Fossil Beds National Monument in Gering, Nebraska. We do not have pictures of all of the material that was stolen. Initially, it appears there may also be about 4 pairs of moccasins, an Indian saddle and a few bags missing. a more complete inventory is being completed and will be forwarded as available.

Stolen Agate Fossil Beds Nat Monument – Cook Exhibit, Foyer Case Now Recovered

AGFO # 739 – Colt Single Action Army Revolver “Peacemaker” pistol, serial number 110865, catalog description: “Cook’s personal revolver. Ornate floral patterns engraved on all parts. Bone grips right grip was plain, left grip had a carved design in the appearance of a steer head. Serial numbers present. Highly polished, light patina on surface, grips are off white to light brown bone. Pistol appears to be functional, related to cartridge belt & holster in case (AGFO # 63).” 1986 & 1991 appraisals are in catalog entry value pistol between $950.00 & $1500.00.

AGFO # 63 – Holster & Cartridge Belt for Cook’s Pistol, catalog description: “Cartridge belt and holster used by J. H. Cook. Manufactured in Cheyenne, Wyoming. D. Meade: Belt was used by J. H. Cook with the related revolver (AGFO# 739), which he called his “Texas peacemaker” and which also had carved bone grips.” 1963 accession re cord gives an appraisal value of $200.00.

AGFO # 2807 – Cook’s various medals & insignias (2): 7th Cavalry Insignia, catalog description: “CROSSED SWORDS ONE – 7 AB OVE, “K” SUSPENDED.” given a 1971 appraisal value of $0.00 U.S. Army Scout badge, catalog description: “1 METAL PIN – 2 PIECES HING ED – ABOVE “J. H. COOK” BELOW “SCOUT/AND/GUIDE U.S. ARMY” given a 1971 appraisal value of $0.00.

AGFO # 2599 – Binocular Case, catalog description: “MATERIAL: LEATHER, METAL BUCKLES, RIVETS. DESCRIPTION:COLOR:B ROWN DECORATION: STAMPED “J. H. COOK/ ALMA/ NM” . FORM: OVAL, WITH CARRYING STRAP. DIMENSION: HEIGHT: 119MM. CONDITION: GOOD.” 1971 appraisal value of $0.00.

AGFO # – Cook’s Binoculars

AGFO # 98 – Knife & Beaded Knife Case, Catalog description reads: “Knife with companion leather sheath. The knife h as a very thin blade that curves up and is stamped “Thomas Wilson, Shear Steel” . The sheath is decorated in blue, red and orange beading. One large tassel extending from the bottom of the sheath is decorated with metal tassel that have dyed (eagle breath ?) feathers.” *Physical Photo Provided*

click on image to see an enlarged version

Stolen Beaded Awl Case AGFO #20 Now Recovered

AGFO # 20 – Beaded Awl Case, catalog description reads: “Leather awl case with beading, quill work and metal decorations. Cone shaped awl case has beading wrapped around girth to form three white bands, alternated with two bands of green bordered by red and blue. Four loops (L 1.2 cm) of green, blue and white beads are attached at the tip of the case. Two long tassels are attached at the tip as well. These tassels each consist of two leather strips, approx 6.2 cm long, one attached to the tip of the case, one attached to the other strip. These strips are wrapped in red quills, with two metal cones with red feather remnants at the bottom of the strip, giving an overall length of 15 cm. The triangular flap is edged in green and white beads, a band of beads around the outer edge of white bands alternating with green bands bordered in red and blue. Two tassels wrapped in red quills are attached to the tip of the flap. Also attached to the tip of the flap are two single loops of white, green and blue beads. a single strand of larger, clear red and blue beads is attached at the top of the case and has an ivory ribbon tied to it. Given by the Cooks as gifts to their cousins, the Wattles.” *Physical Photo Provided*

click on image to see an enlarged version

Stolen Bladder Bag AGFO #135 Now Recovered

AGFO # 135 – Bladder Bag, catalog description reads: “Quill bag made of the tanned bladder of a buffalo, used for carrying porcupine quills utilized for decoration. Bag has rawhide trim beaded in white, red, blue, green and yellow. Beading has an arrowhead design with the bottom being beaded in white and blue. “*Physical Photo Provided*

click on image to see an enlarged version

Stolen Beaded Lizard Amulet AGFO #6 Now Recovered

AGFO # 6 – Stuffed and Beaded Lizard Amulet, catalog description reads: “Beaded turtle (lizard?) made of two leather panels, back and belly, sewn together and stuffed. Two pieces of leather cut into the shape of a turtle or possibly a lizard with legs splayed out. Back panel is beaded with a center stripe of alternating blue and white strands. Down the sides and legs of top are alternating strands of green and yellow. Head is white with blue eyes and mouth.   Blue beads border perimeter. Belly panel is five segments of beads, alternating strands of green and white. Two beaded loops of green and blue are attached at the chest. All stitching and bead work is done with sinew thread. Given by the Cooks as gifts to their cousins, the Wattles.” *Physical Photo Provided*

click on image to see an enlarged version

Stolen Beaded Moccasins AGFO #5 Now Recovered

AGFO # 5 – Beaded Moccasins, catalog description reads: “Pair of child’s leather moccasins beaded in green, blue and white. The upper is made of tanned leather, soles are rawhide. Tongue is triangular shaped with a V notch at the top. Beads are in checker boxes, forming an overall chevron pattern across the top. Majority of checker boxes are green, second row from the toe is of white with a dark blue border. a solid band of beads extends from instep, around toe and to the center of the heel. Band is green with several blue bordered white squares. Ties are present on both cuffs. a cotton stitch is present, holding traces of red trade fabric to the cuff. All other stitching is done in sinew. Given by the Cooks as gifts to their cousins, the Wattles.” *Physical Photo Provided*

AGFO # 265 – Beaded Moccasins, catalog description reads: “Pair of leather moccasins decorated with porcupine quills in red, green, yellow and white. Moccasins also decorated with strip of beading in baby blue around the bottom of each moccasin, accented with dark blue, red and white geometric designs. The top of the moccasins are bound in yellow cloth.” *No Physical Photo Available*

click on image to see an enlarged version

Stolen Beaded Moccasins AGFO #290 Now Recovered

AGFO # 290 – Beaded Moccasins, catalog description reads: “Pair of leather moccasins made in youth size. Decorated with beading in a purple and blue checkered design also having a blue boarder. Moccasins trimmed in green cloth at the top.” *Physical Photo Provided*

click on image to see an enlarged version

Stolen Beaded Moccasins AGFO #301 Now Recovered

AGFO # 301 – Beaded Moccasins, catalog description reads: “Pair of leather moccasins decorated with beading in a multi-colored design. Further decorated with a white beaded boarder having red and blue accents.” *Physical Photo Provided*

click on image to see an enlarged version

Stolen Beaded Club AGFO #___ Now Recovered

AGFO # _ _ _ – Beaded Club w/ stone head

click on image to see an enlarged version

Stolen Watch Pouch AGFO #109 Now Recovered

AGFO # 109 – Watch Pouch, catalog description reads: “Leather bag (watch pocket) with young eagle design on the obverse, “J. H. Cook from Good Cloud” on reverse in quill work. Further decorated with quill work tassel and beaded ball in red and green.” *Physical Photo of Reverse Provided*

AGFO# 115 – Watch Pouch, catalog description reads: “Rawhide watch pouch beaded in blue, orange and red along edges of bag. Central quill work reads “Wanbli Cikala” meaning Little Eagle, the Lakota name for Cook. The name is edged in yellow and blue beading.” *Physical Photo Provided*

click on image to see an enlarged version

Stolen Beaded Moccasins AGFO #366 Now Recovered

AGFO # 366 – Canvas Moccasins, catalog description reads: “Pair of canvas moccasins beaded in red, blue and gold beads with gold trim. Green beading trim is present on the toe. The toe and sole are made of leather and the top is trimmed in white and blue cloth.”

click on image to see an enlarged version

Stolen Parfleche AGFO #317 Now Recovered

AGFO # 317 – Bag (Parfleche), catalog description reads: “Parfleche bag in the shape of an envelope type. Decorated with black and clear beads around the outside edges. Further decorated on two corners with red beads that have white ends. No other decoration otherwise. Clear beads also act as a binding.” *Physical Photo provided*

click on image to see an enlarged version

Stolen Parfleche AGFO #89 Now Recovered

AGFO # 89 – Bag (Parfleche), catalog description reads: “Rawhide bag painted with green, blue, red and yellow designs in a rectangular shapes. Bag is bound with red trade cloth and sinew.” *Physical Photo Provided*

click on image to see an enlarged version

Stolen Saddle AGFO #79 Now Recovered

AGFO # 79 – Indian Saddle, catalog description reads: “Indian saddle of plain decoration (paint) with small wooden stirrups and metal ring cinch. Small knob at front for saddle horn. Stirrups constructed of rawhide covered wood.” *Physical Photo Provided*

RECOVERED - Ethnic Art Items

Ethnic Items Missing in Denver, Colorado, November, 2007 Have Been Recovered as of July 8, 2008

We received the following message from Chris Bobrick this morning:

” a box of items that we had just packed up at the Denver, CO World Wide Show was stolen. It contained a number of small items. a listing and photos are attached.

And on July 8, 2008, we received another message

“Dear Arch,

“In the stupidity is its own reward department, we have recovered the box of material that we reported stolen during November of last year. We left it on a table in a booth and Moses of R&R Showcases found it, took it back to LA with him after the show and forgot about it. Chris was setting up the case order for John Morris’ show in Santa Fe and Moses asked her if she knew who I was and he returned the box, all contents intact, to me last week.

“Again, thanks to Moses for his diligence and integrity.

“Lew Bobrick

#6110 Recovered Hopi Tile, #4380 Recovered Italian Vase, #5932 Recovered “St Pasqual”, #6169 Recovered Cat, #6158 Stolen Canteen, # 3712 Recovered Spanish Colonial Salt Bowl, # 6109 Recovered Hopi Tile

RECOVERED - Seven Navajo Textiles

Ten Old Navajo Rugs Stolen from Hubbell Trading Post, Ganado, AZ, May 7, 2007 Have Now Been Recovered

On May 7, 2007, ten old Navajo rugs were stolen from the Hubbell Trading Post in Ganado, Arizona. Seven of these have been recovered, three remain missing, of which two are pictured below:

Recovered Ganado Rug, Recovered Large Eye Dazzler Rug

There is no photo available of the third recovered rug, a Chinle Revival 1st phase, banded with design elements in the bands circa 1950. All three of the remaining rugs have now been recovered.

We quote here the sad letter from Lewis and Chris Bobrick received by ATADA on May 24, 2007. It is a lesson for all of us:

  • 1) what happens if a collector purchases a stolen piece from a reputable dealer
  • 2) what happens if a dealer buys stolen items
  • and 3) the need for immediate notification and posting of photos in the event of a theft.

Here is the Bobrick letter:

” Alice,

I am writing to you because I cannot find a link on the ATADA site to on who to notify regarding stolen items. Can you let me know. Lew and I purchased a group of rugs a few weeks ago after calling a couple of dealers and checking ATADA to find out if they might be stolen. Yesterday I received a call from the US Parks Service special agent regarding a theft that occurred at Hubbell Trading Post on May 6, 2007. 10 rugs were stolen. Lew and I bought seven and have returned five of them to the parks service agents and are in the process of getting 2 that were sold returned. There are still 3 rugs out there. We have informed the department that had they notified the ATADA site we would not have purchased these rugs and could have notified them about the whereabouts of the thieves. At this point we are out the rugs and the money. But could you have someone at least post a notice regarding the theft and the 3 rugs we did not recover. They are :1950s Natural eye dazzler measuring 60 x 150 so the rug is very large and unique. a Ganado measuring 48″ x63″ .

Chinle Revival 1st phase, banded with design elements in the bands circa 1950 – No picture.

The lead investigator for the Parks Service is Brian O’day, cell 928-640-0127. If anyone sees or knows of these 3 other rugs please notify officer O’day immediately.

Thanks Chris & Lew Bobrick

  • 303-744-9203
  • 1213 E 4th Ave.
  • Denver, CO 80218

RECOVERED - Two Grey Hills Textile

Rug Stolen from Toadlena Trading Post, December, 2006, Now Recovered

Stolen between Dec 1 and Dec 15, 2006 from Toadlena Trading Post Weaving Museum: a Toadlena/Two Grey Hills tapestry quality weaving by Lenora Gould, completed in May of 1999, measuring 37″ x 62″ .

We received the following message on December 18, 2006

” Arch, The rug stolen from our weaving museum was recovered today. It had been sold to a Gallup trader and due to fast action and their kind assistance it has now been returned.”

RECOVERED - American Indian Weavings

American Indian Weavings and Rings Stolen from a Santa Fe Gallery, March 12, 2006, Now Recovered

We received the following message on 27 May, 2006:

“Dear Arch:

“Last week, a young woman showed up at a pawn shop in Albuquerque offering three of our stolen textiles for sale. The pawn shop called a dealer who alerted us. She subsequently sold 17 Navajo rings that were stolen from Coulter Brooks Art and Antiques to another dealer. There is an investigation underway and we will let you know as things unfold. However, in the meantime, all textiles EXCEPT the late classic blanket style weaving have been recovered thanks to the ATADA web site. Also, WE STILL ARE MISSING 25 RINGS and believe that they may have been sold in Albuquerque or Santa Fe Please remove the photos (except for the sketch of the blanket) now that these items have been recovered.

“Warm Regards,

“Jan Brooks “

  • 5. Stolen and Still Missing: Late Classic/Transitional Navajo Blanket: see sketch above – with a red-orange ground with several rows of serrated diamonds in blue indigo, green indigo and yellow vegetal dyes. Approximately 49″ x 72.
  • 6. Stolen and Still Missing: Several Boxes Of Navajo Rings (ca. 80+) including large number of men’s single stone rings, all pre-1950. We regret that the photographs are not great but its what’s available right now.

If you have any information on these stolen items, please contact Lane Coulter or Jan Brooks at 1-505-983-3232 or email: acme@nets.com

RECOVERED - Two Stolen Beaded Vests

Two Stolen Vests Recovered

On February 23, 2005, John Molloy, owner of Spanish and Indian Trading Post in Santa Fe, NM reported the recovery of two stolen vests as a result of the thieves difficulties in fencing the stolen property because their photos appear on this page. We are proud to have played a role in recovering these vests!

Stolen Beaded Vests Now Recovered

Enlarged Image of Stolen Sioux Vest Now Recovered

Enlarged Image of Stolen Sioux Child’s Vest Now Recovered

On approximately June 21 and again on August 7, two Sioux beaded vests were stolen from Spanish and Indian Trading Company in Santa Fe. Meanwhile, if you have any information pertaining to either of these two vests, please contact the Santa Fe Police Department at 505-428-3710 and mention case number W1562 or contact the gallery at 505-983-6106.

RECOVERED - Plains Indian Items from Ft. Morgan, CO

Plains Indian Items Stolen from Ft. Morgan, CO, museum Feb. 10, 2006 Now Recovered

 

Five Pairs of Moccasins Stolen from the Ft. Morgan Museum Recovered

The Fort Morgan Museum experienced a theft on the afternoon of Friday, February 10, 2006. The stolen items include five pairs of moccasins, a belt, a strap, a small quilled item commonly thought to be a watch fob, a hatchet and a stone club. Images are available on the Museum’s web site www.ftmorganmus.org on the coming events page. If you have any information on these items please contact us, Nikkie Cooper, Curator, Fort Morgan Museum, P.O. Box 184, Fort Morgan, CO 80701, phone 970-542-4011, e-mail: curator@ftmorganmus.org, web: www.ftmorganmus.org .

click on image to see an enlarged version

Quilled Watch Fob Stolen from the Ft. Morgan Museum Recovered

The Fort Morgan Museum experienced a theft on the afternoon of Friday, February 10, 2006. The stolen items include five pairs of moccasins, a belt, a strap, a small quilled item commonly thought to be a watch fob, a hatchet and a stone club. Images are available on the Museum’s web site www.ftmorganmus.org on the coming events page. If you have any information on these items please contact us, Nikkie Cooper, Curator, Fort Morgan Museum, P.O. Box 184, Fort Morgan, CO 80701, phone 970-542-4011, e-mail: curator@ftmorganmus.org, web: www.ftmorganmus.org .

click on image to see an enlarged version

Beaded Belt Stolen from the Ft. Morgan Museum Recovered

The Fort Morgan Museum experienced a theft on the afternoon of Friday, February 10, 2006. The stolen items include five pairs of moccasins, a belt, a strap, a small quilled item commonly thought to be a watch fob, a hatchet and a stone club. Images are available on the Museum’s web site www.ftmorganmus.org on the coming events page. If you have any information on these items please contact us, Nikkie Cooper, Curator, Fort Morgan Museum, P.O. Box 184, Fort Morgan, CO 80701, phone 970-542-4011, e-mail: curator@ftmorganmus.org, web: www.ftmorganmus.org .

click on image to see an enlarged version

Beaded Strap Stolen from the Ft. Morgan Museum Recovered

The Fort Morgan Museum experienced a theft on the afternoon of Friday, February 10, 2006. The stolen items include five pairs of moccasins, a belt, a strap, a small quilled item commonly thought to be a watch fob, a hatchet and a stone club. Images are available on the Museum’s web site www.ftmorganmus.org on the coming events page. If you have any information on these items please contact us, Nikkie Cooper, Curator, Fort Morgan Museum, P.O. Box 184, Fort Morgan, CO 80701, phone 970-542-4011, e-mail: curator@ftmorganmus.org, web: www.ftmorganmus.org .

click on image to see an enlarged version

Tomahawk Stolen from the Ft. Morgan Museum Recovered

The Fort Morgan Museum experienced a theft on the afternoon of Friday, February 10, 2006. The stolen items include five pairs of moccasins, a belt, a strap, a small quilled item commonly thought to be a watch fob, a hatchet and a stone club. Images are available on the Museum’s web site www.ftmorganmus.org on the coming events page. If you have any information on these items please contact us, Nikkie Cooper, Curator, Fort Morgan Museum, P.O. Box 184, Fort Morgan, CO 80701, phone 970-542-4011, e-mail: curator@ftmorganmus.org, web: www.ftmorganmus.org .

click on image to see an enlarged version

Beaded Stone Club Stolen from the Ft. Morgan Museum Recovered

The Fort Morgan Museum experienced a theft on the afternoon of Friday, February 10, 2006. The stolen items include five pairs of moccasins, a belt, a strap, a small quilled item commonly thought to be a watch fob, a hatchet and a stone club. Images are available on the Museum’s web site www.ftmorganmus.org on the coming events page. If you have any information on these items please contact us, Nikkie Cooper, Curator, Fort Morgan Museum, P.O. Box 184, Fort Morgan, CO 80701, phone 970-542-4011, e-mail: curator@ftmorganmus.org,

 

Stolen Apache Basket, Now Recovered

click on image to see an enlarged version
  

8″ x 7″ Apache basket stolen April 15, 2002, Mesa, Arizona, Now Recovered.

also three 1950s 6″ Kachina dolls just purchased from Ron Munn that morning (no photos), now recovered

Mesa AZ Police Report 20033210666, Officer O’Shaughnessy 12109 or any officer, Mesa Police Dept, 120 So. Robson, Mesa, AZ, Police phone 480 644-2030.

RECOVERED - Pipe Tomahawk

Tomahawk Stolen from Museum in Walla Walla, Washington, June 4, 2005 Has Been Recovered

In January, 2006 we received the following letter:

Just before Christmas, 2005, the Whitman Mission Tomahawk was returned by mail to the Whitman Mission National Historic Site along with an anonymous letter asking for forgiveness (!).

The investigation is on-going but you can change your web site to indicate that the tomahawk has been recovered. Thanks very much for your organization’s assistance in this matter. It is my opinion that the publicity generated by the theft and the spread of information of the theft (in part due to your organization and its web site) pressured the thief to return the tomahawk.

Thanks again, (Signed) Steve Yu, Criminal Investigator, Yosemite National Park.

Recovered Stolen Pipe Tomahawk, possibly of Hudson Bay Company origin:

Head measures 7 inches with 3-inch blade. Various hand punched designs decorate the head and blade. Handle 12 inches long with 3/4 -inch diameter. The inside of the handle is hollow, making a pipe stem. There are teeth marks located on the lower end of the handle-stem. Nine rows of round-headed tacks encircle the handle. Copper wire is wrapped around the handle in two places. Between the two wire wrappings, a piece of metal in the form of 4 elongated diamonds is fastened around the handle. This weapon was reported to have been used used to kill Marcus Whitman in 1847.

The case number for the tomahawk is PWSA-05-0070. If you have any information about this tomahawk, please contact Steve Yu, Criminal Investigator, National Park Service, (209) 372-0614

RECOVERED - Cabazon Artifacts

Federal Bureau of Investigation and
Cabazon Tribal Police Department

Report of

STOLEN NATIVE AMERICAN ARTIFACTS NOW RECOVERED

ON May 17, 2005, we received a phone call from Special Agent Joe Stuart informing us that 14 of 17 articles taken on January 11, 2005 have been recovered. An alert, concerned citizen saw the stolen items, went home to check the ATADA Theft Alert Page, then called Joe Stuart (the Cabazon Tribal Police having been disbanded in the interim). We thank Joe for informing us of the good news.

Below are photos of items taken during an early morning burglary on January 11, 2005, of the cultural museum at the Cabazon Band of Mission Indians located in Indio, California. These artifacts are valued at more than $100,000 and were comprised of personally loaned items as well as items loaned from the State of California.

click on image to see an enlarged version

Stolen Pot Now Recovered

Reference: Cabazon Tribal Police Department file number, L05-0066, FBI file number 198C-LA-240406.

click on image to see an enlarged version

Stolen Pot Now Recovered

Reference: Cabazon Tribal Police Department file number, L05-0066, FBI file number 198C-LA-240406.

click on image to see an enlarged version

Stolen Pot Now Recovered

Reference: Cabazon Tribal Police Department file number, L05-0066, FBI file number 198C-LA-240406.

click on image to see an enlarged version

Stolen Pot Now Recovered

Reference: Cabazon Tribal Police Department file number, L05-0066, FBI file number 198C-LA-240406.

click on image to see an enlarged version

Stolen Pot Now Recovered

Reference: Cabazon Tribal Police Department file number, L05-0066, FBI file number 198C-LA-240406.

click on image to see an enlarged version

Stolen Pot Now Recovered

Reference: Cabazon Tribal Police Department file number, L05-0066, FBI file number 198C-LA-240406.

click on image to see an enlarged version

Stolen Pot Now Recovered

Reference: Cabazon Tribal Police Department file number, L05-0066, FBI file number 198C-LA-240406.

click on image to see an enlarged version

Stolen Basket Now Recovered

Reference: Cabazon Tribal Police Department file number, L05-0066, FBI file number 198C-LA-240406.

click on image to see an enlarged version

Stolen Basket Now Recovered

Reference: Cabazon Tribal Police Department file number, L05-0066, FBI file number 198C-LA-240406.

click on image to see an enlarged version

Stolen Basket Now Recovered

Reference: Cabazon Tribal Police Department file number, L05-0066, FBI file number 198C-LA-240406.

click on image to see an enlarged version

Stolen Basket Now Recovered

Reference: Cabazon Tribal Police Department file number, L05-0066, FBI file number 198C-LA-240406.

click on image to see an enlarged version

Stolen Basket Now Recovered

Reference: Cabazon Tribal Police Department file number, L05-0066, FBI file number 198C-LA-240406.

click on image to see an enlarged version

Stolen Basket Now Recovered

Reference: Cabazon Tribal Police Department file number, L05-0066, FBI file number 198C-LA-240406.

click on image to see an enlarged version

Stolen Basket Now Recovered.

Reference: Cabazon Tribal Police Department

RECOVERED - Large Native American Artifact Collection

On March 24, 2003 – we received the following e-mail notification that these items have been recovered:

  • From: a Colorado Collector
  • To: Webmaster@ATADA.org
  • Date: Monday, March 24, 2003, 2:01:44 PM
  • Subject: Artifacts recovered

 ==============Original message text===============

Dear Arch,

The saga of the 36 stolen artifacts we listed with you earlier in February has had a wonderful turnabout. THEY HAVE BEEN RECOVERED. The case is still in process, but at least the objects are safe. The whole episode has been traumatic to say the least but the wonderful spirit and work of ATADA brought us a little peace of mind and hope amidst it all. I also believe that the community of dealers and associates helped initiate the turn of events.

Would you be able to place a large notice to members on the site to let them know the items have been recovered? How do you suggest this appear?

Perhaps you could keep the photos with a large type stamp over them saying recovered. You are the webmaster so I will leave that up to you. I do know that members have studied these items and put great effort towards their return for which we are eternally grateful.

As always, anonymity is of highest concern. David Cook, David Fine American Art, is still the contact on this matter.

You and ATADA confirm that there is no substitute for good people and that our friends and colleagues in this world of Native American Art are a family. Thanks so much. I will be in touch as the story unfolds. So far, we are incredibly LUCKY.

Sincerely, a Colorado Collector

==============End of original message text===========

On February 1, 2003, 36 important Native American artifacts were stolen from a private collection in Colorado focusing on Plains beadwork, parfleche and textiles.

The following items have been recovered: 

Blackfeet War Shirt
Stolen Blackfeet War Shirt Now Recovered

Blackfeet War Shirt – 1870s – Buckskin, Trade cloth, Open sides, Blue seed bead panels, Ermine tails

 
Apache Puberty Cape

Stolen Apache Puberty Cape Now Recovered

Pony Beaded Apache Puberty Cape – 1860, Buckskin, Painted with red ochre, Trim beaded with black, white and red pony beads, Russian beads, Brass military buttons, Tinklers

 


Stolen Crow Leggings Now Recovered

Crow Leggings – 1880s – Red / green trade cloth


Stolen Kiowa High Top Mocs Now Recovered

Kiowa Women’s High Top Moccasins – 1880s – Green with silver buttons, 17″ L x 9″ W

 

Stolen Bow and Arrows Now Recovered

Arapaho snakeskin covered ash bow w/ arrows – 1880s

 
Stolen Pony Beaded Pipe Bag Now Recovered

Pony Beaded Pipe Bag – 1840s, Four flaps w/three bells on fringe, Bag: 12″ L Fringe: 16″ L

 
Stolen Cheyenne/Arapaho Pipe Bag Now Recovered

Cheyenne/Arapaho, Cheyenne / Arapaho Pipe Bag – 1870s, Seed beads, 6″ quilled panel, 10″ fringe, 28″ – 30″ L


Stolen Northern Plains Pipe Bag Now Recovered

Northern Plains – 1935 – Buckskin, beads: blue, red and white; blueish quill work, 17″ fringe, 13″ bag, 36″ long total

 
Stolen Crow Cylinder Parfleche Now Recovered

Crow Cylinder Parfleche, Red/black paint, dart patina, 20-22″ L x 5″ D

 

Stolen Bow and Arrows Now Recovered

Arapaho snakeskin covered ash bow w/ arrows – 1880s

 

Stolen Kiowa Leggings Yellow Now Recovered

Kiowa Men’s, Twisted Fringe Leggings, 1880s, 36″ L x 5″ fringe, Yellow ochre paint, Trim beads, red pink white blue

 

Stolen Yankton Sioux Tipi Bag Now Recovered

Yankton Sioux Tipi Bag, Buffalo hide, seed beads, 20″ W x 16″ H

 

Stolen Arpahoe Dispatch Case Now Recovered

Arapaho Dispatch Case – 1880s, Commercial leather

 

Stolen Arapaho Dispatch Case Flag Now Recovered

Arapaho Dispatch Case American flag motif on white background, 20″ x 8.5″

 

Stolen Cheyenne Dispatch Case Now Recovered

Cheyenne Dispatch Case – 1880s, 15″ x 8.5″ – greasy yellow/green

 

Stolen Sioux Knife Case Now Recovered

Sioux Knife Case – 1870s, Buffalo hide / inner sheath

 

Stolen Cheyenne Strike-A-Lite Now Recovered

Cheyenne Strike-A-Lite – 1870-1880s, 5″ H x 3″ W (top)

 

Stolen Sioux Strike-A-Lite Now Recovered

Sioux Strike-A-Lite w/striker in case, 4″ H x 2.5″ W (top)

 

Stolen Sioux Knife Case Now Recovered

Sioux Knife Case – 1870s – Buffalo hide / inner sheath

 

Stolen Apache Burden Basket Now Recovered

Apache Burden Basket – 1870s, Trade beads – blue and white, 26″ H / 20″ W

 

Stolen Sioux Fox Pipe Now Recovered

Sioux Fox Pipe – 1850s, Bowl: fox inlay in black pipestone, 32″ -36″ L

 

Stolen Small Apache Burden Basket Now Recovered

Apache Burden Basket – 1880-1890s, 18″ H / 16″ W

 

Stolen Sioux Saddle Blanket Now Recovered

Sioux Saddle Blanket – 1880s – Seed beads – yellow, green, red and brass, Brass bells

 

Stolen Whetstone Case Now Recovered

Whetstone Case

 

Stolen Blackfeet Parfleche Now Recovered

Blackfeet Parfleche – Buffalo rawhide – 1880s, trade cloth on seams, Red/black paint


Stolen Athabascan Bag Now Recovered

Athabascan Wall Pouch with flap – 1800s – Caribou hide, red pattern calico lining, tiny beads


Stolen Blackfeet Parfleche 2Now Recovered

Blackfeet Parfleche – 1875 – Buffalo rawhide red/black paint, 17″ W 24″ side fringe


Stolen Sioux Twisted Stem Pipe Now Recovered

Sioux twisted stem pipe – 1880s – Bowl: carved catlanite, 30″ L


Stolen Blanket Strip Now Recovered

Blanket Strip – 1880s – 4 Rondels, 4 Beaded cross design, Seed beads, 66″ L


Stolen Split Horn Bonnet Now Recovered

Nez Perce split horn bonnet, 1890s


Stolen Elk Dreamer Moccasins Now Recovered

Cheyenne Man’s “Elk Dreamer Society” Moccasins – 10″ L, Small cut Cheyenne blue beads


Stolen Blackfeet Parfleche Now Recovered

Blackfeet Parfleche – Buffalo rawhide – 1880s – 16″ W / 15″ H, Side fringe shorter 13″

 

Stolen Rattle & Rattle Case Now Recovered

Rattle and case, rawhide, 11″ L x 4.5″ D


Stolen Green Kiowa Leggings Now Recovered

Kiowa men’s leggings – 1870s, green paint, trim beads, spaghetti fringe


Stolen Northern Plains Tomahawk Now Recovered

Northern Plains Tomahawk, file branded, brass tacks, 1850s, 18-24″ L


Stolen Third Phase Chiefs Blanket Now Recovered

Third Phase Chiefs Blanket – 1870s, Churro wool, 55″ W x 70″ L

Stolen Cheyenne Saddle Bag sNow Recovered

Cheyenne Double Saddle Bags

1880s, Beaded on buffalo hide with red trace cloth inserts, Beads – blue, red, white, 48″ L x 14″ W


Stolen Arapaho Mocs Now Recovered
Arapaho Moccasins, 1880s