University Dropped from Title of Smithsonian

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Summary

Senator John Davis of Massachusetts reminds the United States Congress that the word "university" is not to be found in James Smithson's will and that it seems to be taken for granted that the bequest is for the establishment of a university. Henceforward, Congress refrains from discussing the "Smithsonian University," and the intended name "Smithsonian Institution" is revived.

Subject

  • Davis, John
  • Smithson, James 1765-1829
  • United States Congress

Category

Chronology of Smithsonian History

Notes

Rhees, William Jones. The Smithsonian Institution: Documents Relative to Its Origin and History: 1835-1899, Vol. 1, 1835-1887. Washington, D.C.: Government Printing Office, 1901., p. 140-145

Contact information

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

Date

April 30, 1836

Topic

  • Smithson Bequest
  • Education
  • Act to establish the "Smithsonian Institution," for the Increase and Diffusion of Knowledge Among Men
  • National University

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