Smithsonian

The Smithsonian Institution is a group of museums and research institutions administered by the Government of the United States. It was founded on August 10, 1846, "for the increase and diffusion of knowledge" and is composed of 19 museums, 21 libraries, nine research centers, and a zoo. The institution's headquarters are located in Washington, D.C.

History

The Smithsonian Institution was established with funds from the Englishman James Smithson (1765–1829) according to his will, "to found at Washington, under the name of the Smithsonian Institution, an establishment for the increase and diffusion of knowledge among men." Smithson was a scientist who left his estate to the United States, a country he had never visited, to create an institution dedicated to knowledge.

The U.S. Congress officially accepted the legacy bequeathed by Smithson in 1836 and established the Smithsonian Institution in 1846. The first Secretary of the Smithsonian was Joseph Henry, a noted physicist, who served from 1846 to 1878.

Museums and Research Centers

The Smithsonian Institution is often referred to as "the nation's attic" because of its eclectic holdings of 154 million items. The museums cover a wide range of subjects, including art, history, culture, and science.

Notable Museums

• National Museum of American History
• National Air and Space Museum
• National Museum of Natural History
• Smithsonian American Art Museum
• National Museum of African American History and Culture

Research Centers

The Smithsonian also operates several research centers, including:

• Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory
• Smithsonian Environmental Research Center
• Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute

Education and Outreach

The Smithsonian Institution is committed to education and outreach, offering a variety of programs for students, educators, and the general public. These include exhibitions, lectures, workshops, and online resources.

Funding

The Smithsonian Institution is funded by the federal government, private donations, and its own endowment. Approximately 62% of its budget comes from federal appropriations, while the rest is derived from private and corporate contributions, membership dues, and retail, concession, and licensing revenues.

Governance

The Smithsonian is governed by a Board of Regents, consisting of the Chief Justice of the United States, the Vice President of the United States, three members of the U.S. Senate, three members of the U.S. House of Representatives, and nine citizen members.

Also see

• James Smithson
• Joseph Henry
• National Mall
• List of Smithsonian museums