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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.  

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About the Smithsonian Institution Archives

Capturing, preserving, and sharing the history of the Smithsonian Institution

Explore the history of the Smithsonian Institution:

  Alexander Wetmore embarks on a trip in El Uracillo, Cocle, Panama, 1952 150 Years of Smithsonian Research in Latin America
beige carte-de-visite with 4 men posed close together, two seated, with signatures on the bottom The Megatherium Club
African American Groundbreakers at the Smithsonian: Challenges and Achievements

Today in Smithsonian History

Guide to the Smithsonian Archives 1978

August 9, 1978

The Smithsonian Institution Archives publishes a guide to its record and manuscript holdings that will give scholars and the general public a more comprehensive introduction to the collection documenting the history of the Smithsonian.

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The Bigger Picture

Latest Articles:
Two owls perched on a wood beam. Link Love: 8/07/2020 August 7, 2020 by Deborah Shapiro  
Three men in suits standing behind a microphone and in front of a wall of speakers and meters. The World Is Yours: Smithsonian Annual Report of Scientific Progress August 6, 2020 by Kira Sobers  
Green poses in front of an exhibit case. Wonderful Women Wednesday: Dr. Rayna Green August 5, 2020 by Emily Niekrasz