Police Collecting of Ancestral Remains and Cultural Property, 1825-1930.

It is increasingly well known that police perpetrated violence against First Nations throughout the colonial period. But their role in supplying human remains and cultural objects to domestic and overseas museums is little understood, nor whether they exceeded or abused their powers in doing so. Combining fine-grained historical research with detailed legal analysis, this project investigates police collecting (1825-1930) and its contemporary implications. Revealing this history is of profound importance to First Nations seeking to know what happened to their Ancestors and cultural property, self-determine their future, and make repatriation claims. It is also of deep importance to museums and police, as understanding and acknowledging their past colonial actions will improve service to First Nations and is critical for their reconciliation aspirations. Findings in diverse formats will maximise reach and uptake: a book and journal articles; education materials; conference pap