Explore all 59,059 records that document the Smithsonian's people, events, buildings, exhibits, and research:
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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:
The first volume of Smithsonian Contributions to Knowledge is published. Ancient Monuments of the Mississippi Valley, comprising the results of Extensive Original Surveys and Explorations, by E. G. Squier and E. H. Davis, is illustrated by forty-eight lithographic plates and 207 wood engravings. Smithsonian Secretary Joseph Henry decides against copyrighting this or any Smithsonian publications. The first volume of Contributions will be distributed to learned societies in approximately twenty-five foreign countries.
