Today in History: James Smithson & the Smithsonian Institution

SOUTH REAR - Smithsonian Institution Building
Today in History–June 27–the Library of Congress features the Smithsonian Institution founded by James Smithson, who died on this date in 1829. A renowned British scientist, Smithson left the endowment to “increase and diffusion of knowledge among men.” Find out more about the man and the institution that includes numerous museums and research centers in the Today in History section. Then click the links below to access more Library archives related to the Smithsonian. Of course, you’ll also want to visit the main Smithsonian website from which you can access a multitude of digital resources.

The execution of the important trust conferred upon the government of the United States by the late James Smithson, of London, is a matter which must be deeply interesting to the people of this country

Smithsonian correspondence & other texts

Smithsonian books & articles

Smithsonian Institution historical newspaper coverage

Periodical articles

The Institute Polka” (sheet music)

Smithsonian images

Library webcasts related to the Smithsonian Institution and its collections

Smithsonian legislation

Smithsonian Institution website