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.
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Explore all 53,841 records that document the Smithsonian's people, events, buildings, exhibits, and research:
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Capturing, preserving, and sharing the history of the Smithsonian Institution
Explore the history of the Smithsonian Institution:
June 20, 1911
The new US National Museum Building (now the National Museum of Natural History) is formally completed. The building houses anthropological, art, historical, and natural history collections. Many of the historical exhibits remain in the Arts and Industries Building until 1963.
