Today in History: James Smithson & the Smithsonian Institution
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.
Smithsonian correspondence & other texts
Smithsonian Institution historical newspaper coverage
Periodical articles
- “Speech of Mr. Marsh, of Vermont, on the bill for establishing the Smithsonian Institution” New Englander and Yale Review Volume 4, Issue 16, October 1846
- “Hints on Public Architecture. Containing, among other illustrations, Views and Plans of the Smithsonian Institution” The United States Democratic Review Volume 24, Issue 130, April 1849
- “The Smithsonian Institution” The North American Review Volume 79, Issue 165, October 1854
- “Annual Report of the Regents of the Smithsonian Institution” Manufacturer and Builder Volume 13, Issue 12, December 1881
“The Institute Polka” (sheet music)
Library webcasts related to the Smithsonian Institution and its collections
Smithsonian Institution website