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Summary

Discusses the life, family lineage and bequest of James Smithson; speculates as to why Smithson left the bequest; and details the debates over how the bequest should be used. Describes the building and programs of the early Institution and the "Programme of Organization" for the SI developed by the first Secretary, Joseph Henry, which included publications, research, international exchange service, and library.

Subject

  • Henry, Joseph 1797-1878
  • Smithson, James 1765-1829
  • United States National Museum
  • International Exchange Service (IES)
  • Smithsonian Institution Libraries (SIL)

Category

Smithsonian Institution History Bibliography

Contained within

The Chautauquan Vol. 5 (Journal)

Contact information

Institutional History Division, Smithsonian Institution Archives, 600 Maryland Avenue, S.W., Washington, D.C. 20024-2520, SIHistory@si.edu

Date

1885

Topic

  • Smithson Bequest
  • Congressional Debates
  • SI, Early History
  • Museums
  • Biography
  • Museum publications
  • Research

Physical description

pp. 275-279

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