The message arrived too late.

An autopsy was performed.

And Ishi’s brain was removed.

The Institution That Called Him A Friend Still Took His Brain

The removal of Ishi’s brain is one of the most disturbing reversals in the entire story.

During his life, museum staff had described him as a friend, a colleague, and an invaluable teacher.

At his death, the logic of scientific collection reasserted itself.

The autopsy took place despite Kroeber’s objection and despite what researchers understood about Ishi’s wishes concerning the dead.

His body was eventually cremated.

Objects were placed with him, including a bow, arrows, food, shell money, tobacco, jewelry, and obsidian flakes.