August 10, 2012
Happy 166th Birthday to Us!
What do you get for an institution that has everything? A three-cent stamp! 1946, Smithsonian Archives
It was just 166 short years ago that President James K. Polk signed into law a bill establishing the Smithsonian Institution. Founded at the bequest of the British mineralogist and chemist James Smithson, the Smithsonian was created for the “increase and diffusion of knowledge” and we’ve been at it ever since. Over the years, the Institution has grown to 19 museums and the National Zoo. Here’s a look at how it got there:
View of the north facade of the Castle, circa 1860. Smithsonian Archives
These two American bison called the Castle’s South Yard home. Circa 1886-1889, Smithsonian Archives
Artist Charles Hoover found artistic inspiration in the Smithsonian’s picturesque setting. Circa 1933-1943, Smithsonian Archives
A crowd gathers to watch the installation of Secretary Adams in 1984. Photo by Jeff Tinsley, Smithsonian Archives
And a view of the Castle as it looks now. Photo by Eric Long, 2012
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wow wery nice
The Smithsonian is a national treasure and should be advertised more for tourist. The diversified nature and wealth of information is just amazing. You could be in Washington DC and see the Smithsonian everyday for a week and still need more time.
Our high school seniors go on class trips to foreign countries and we have so much to offer right here in America. Sad they do not get to experience this national treasure, the Smithsonian.