Description: [edan-image:id=siris_sic_5844,size=200,left]The Megatherium Club, named after a giant extinct sloth that once roamed South America, consisted of an eccentric group of young naturalists aiming to build the Smithsonian’s collection. The club was formed in 1857 under zoologist William Stimpson, who held the club’s first meeting in his cottage before the members were asked to set
Description: Smithsonian Books is publishing a pocket-sized version of "Werner’s Nomenclature of Colours," a 19th-century guide to color for artists, scientists, naturalists, and anthropologists. [via Colossal]The boundary of our known universe has expanded; a population of planets was discovered outside the Milky Way. [via WAPO]The Smithsonian National Portrait Gallery's director, Kim
Description: [edan-image:id=siris_sic_5844,size=250,left]A staff-favorite story in the Smithsonian’s history is that of the Megatherium Club — a revolving group of young naturalists who made the Castle their temporary home in between expeditions to the outer reaches of the United States. Who could not be intrigued by this photo of the Club where they look to be sharing a joke, or a plan?