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Every Collection has a StoryThe history of the Smithsonian is a vital part of the history of American experience, scientific exploration, and international cultural understanding. Explore the records of the Archives that document the Smithsonian’s people, events, buildings, and research.
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The Board of Regents passes a resolution accepting the Norman plan and design of New York architect James Renwick, Jr., for the Smithsonian Institution Building, known as the Castle. The Board also decides that the western range and western wing of the building are to be reserved for a gallery of art.More
The Smithsonian’s Second Secretary Spencer Fullerton Baird dedicated his career to creating a great national museum at the Smithsonian, the U.S. National Museum that opened in 1881. Learn about Baird and the fulfillment of his dreams.More