Smithsonian's 150th Anniversary

[si home] James Smithson's Gift

THE STORY OF A BEQUEST EXHIBIT

IN SMITHSONIAN BUILDING GREAT HALL

[will] [will]
Englishman James Smithson's bequest to the people of the United States of America shows the power of a single gift. From one man's estate came the beginnings of the nation's largest museum complex, numerous research facilities, and a range of educational programs.

[Smithson]
Smithson		 James Smithson (1765-1829) was a wealthy English scientist who devoted his life to research. Although he had never visited the United States, in his will Smithson bequeathed his estate to found an establishment in Washington, D.C., dedicated to "the increase and diffusion of knowledge." Smithson not only left his fortune to this purpose, but also a collection of minerals, as well as his scientific library.

A Tradition of Giving

[Smithson]
Smithson		 Educated at Pembroke College, Oxford, Smithson went on to conduct research in chemistry, mineralogy and geology. Based on his chemical analysis of calamines, a carbonate of zinc was renamed smithsonite in his honor in 1832.
Smithsonite is composed of zinc carbonate. The presence of cobalt in its crystals makes it appear pink, while copper makes it appear green or blue. Lent by the Department of Mineral Sciences, National Museum of Natural History [Smithsonite]
Smithsonite

The Many Faces of Giving

James Smithson's generous act of philanthropy began a tradition of giving that has been carried on by succeeding generations of donors. In the 150 years since its founding, the Smithsonian has been able to grow with the help of many types of gifts from many types of people.

Travelling Through Time

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