Explore all 58,691 records that document the Smithsonian's people, events, buildings, exhibits, and research:
This searches the Archives’ collection summaries, digitized media, and historic annotations.
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Every Collection has a Story. The Archives holds records that document the Smithsonian’s people, events, buildings, and research. The history of the Smithsonian is a vital part of the history of American experience, scientific exploration, and international cultural understanding.
Explore the history of the Smithsonian Institution:
A system of electric bells and telephones is established throughout the Smithsonian Institution Building or "Castle." The system connects several office and work rooms in the building to provide instant communication between the rooms so as not to lose the time required to go from one room to another.
