Resources

The Smithsonian Institution was founded in 1846 as a trust instrumentality of the United States and consists of nineteen museums, the National Zoo, and specialized research institutes.

If you have any questions about the Smithsonian’s history, we have a wide array of resources to assist you; including exhibits on specialized topics such as Historic Pictures of the Smithsonian, oral/video histories, and resources for K-12 teachers and students.  If you cannot locate the information you seek, contact the Archives’ Institutional History Division.

General History

Strolling on the Mall in Front of SIB, by Unknown, c. 1849, Smithsonian Archives - History Div, 76-4354.

This section contains an overview of the history of the Smithsonian, and its many museums and research institutes, with links to additional resources, including bibliographies, chronologies, timelines, and information on the legal history of the Institution.More

James Smithson

James Smithson Engraving, by Heliotype Printing Co, Smithsonian Archives - History Div, MAH 14574 or MAH14574.

Learn about the enigmatic British scientist James Smithson (1765-1829) whose bequest led to the founding of the Smithsonian.More

Secretaries of the Smithsonian

Secretaries Carmichael, Abbot & Ripley, by Unknown, Smithsonian Archives - History Div, P6435-2 or MAH-P6435.2.

The Smithsonian Secretary is the chief executive officer of the Institution. Meet the twelve men who have led the Institution since its founding in 1846.More

Smithsonian Institution Board of Regents

Regents' Room in Smithsonian Institution Building, by Roberts, Co, c. 1856, Smithsonian Archives - History Div, 2005-10436.

The law that established the Smithsonian in 1846 created a Board of Regents to serve as trustees to ensure the proper use of James Smithson’s bequest. Learn about their role and meet some of our more famous regents.More

Museums

Aerial View of the Mall Filled with People and Tents for 150th Birthday Party on the Mall, by Hofmeister, Richard K, Smithsonian Archives - History Div, 96-25404-19 or 96-25404.19.

Explore the history of the Smithsonian’s nineteen museums and the National Zoo, located in Washington, DC, Maryland, New York City, and Virginia, and covering the arts, culture, history, and science. The Guide to Smithsonian Architecture provides additional information on Smithsonian buildings.More

Smithsonian Research Institutes

Astrophysical Observatory in South Yard, by Unknown, Smithsonian Archives - History Div, 78-6578 or SA-756.

The Smithsonian has research institutes throughout the world that study astrophysics, ecology, endangered species, oceanography, tropical biology, and world cultures.   Discover how these centers contribute to our scientific and cultural knowledge.   More