Description: Although America declared its independence from Great Britain in 1776, Washington, DC, did not become the nation’s capital until July 1790. Today Washington is home to many historic national monuments and landmarks. The postcards in this gallery provide scenic views of a selection of these monuments and landmarks, including several of the Smithsonian’s museums.
Description: The Smithsonian Institution’s first building, the Castle, was designed by architect James Renwick. Until 1881, it housed all aspects of Smithsonian operations, including research, administration, lecture and exhibit halls, library, laboratories, collections storage, and living quarters for the Secretary. Today, the Castle houses administrative offices and the Smithsonian