James Smithson's Gift

[si home] Time and Expertise


Volunteer involvement in the Smithsonian began in the 1850s, when citizens answered a request from the first Secretary, Joseph Henry, to send in weather observations from their farms, military posts, schools, and homes across the United States.

Today, as many as 5000 volunteers donate their time and expertise to the Smithsonian Institution every year. Volunteers are an integral part of every museum and facility--answering visitors' questions, giving tours, tending gardens, and working behind the scenes in curatorial departments, libraries, and offices.

[certificate]
Volunteer Certificate
[work]
Volunteers at Work
[book]
Book
[desk]
Volunteer Desk
[volunteers]
Volunteers at the ZOO
[festival]
American Folklife Festival
[docent]
Docent and Young Visitors


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