Ancient Bones Sought For Diabetes Research Indians’ Mortality Rate Far Higher Than Whites’

Fri., Sept. 19, 1997

Associated Press

A medical researcher is asking the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to allow scientists to study the bones of Kennewick Man for clues about why diabetes afflicts so many Indians.

He’s backed by a Hollywood, Calif., man - Harold K. Lindsay - who says he’s the great-great-grandson of the famous Nez Perce Indian Chief Joseph.

Lindsay contends the bones could contain answers about the killer disease, and he is hoping to rally Indians who don’t agree with official tribal positions against more study of the bones.

The bones of Kennewick Man were found in July 1996 along the Columbia River, and were carbondated at about 9,200 years old. They have sparked controversy because some scientists contend they appear to have caucasoid features.

The Army Corps is charged with determining the future of the bones. Fearing the agency would give the bones to Indian tribes for immediate reburial, eight prominent scientists sued for the right to study the remains.

Recent letters reveal fresh perspectives in a debate that has focused on investigating which peoples came to North America first.

Kaiser Permanente researcher Michael Wendorf told the corps in his Sept. 9 letter that studying prehistoric people could reveal why the Indian mortality rate for diabetes-related illnesses is four times the rate for whites.

By studying Kennewick Man’s diet and lifestyle, Wendorf says it may be possible to locate a cure. He thinks it’s possible modern food-processing techniques remove some critical nutrient that was once part of the American Indian diet.

“Successful research results could improve the life expectancy and quality of life of millions of Americans,” Wendorf wrote.

The letter from Lindsay, a 62-year-old auctioneer, isn’t likely to carry much weight with the corps.

“It’s a personal opinion, and our response is to deal with the official claims presented under the law,” said corps spokesman Dutch Meier.

xxxx WHAT’S NEXT The next hearing on the lawsuit is scheduled for Oct. 1 in federal court in Portland.

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