On August 10, 1846, the Smithsonian Institution was chartered by Congress after James Smithson, a British scientist, willed the United States $500,000 for “an establishment for the increase and diffusion of knowledge.” And increase and diffuse  knowledge it did! Today the Smithsonian comprises 21 museums, the National Zoological Park, and several research facilities. The institute […]

On August 10, 1846, the Smithsonian Institution was chartered by Congress after James Smithson, a British scientist, willed the United States $500,000 for “an establishment for the increase and diffusion of knowledge.” And increase and diffuse  knowledge it did! Today the Smithsonian comprises 21 museums, the National Zoological Park, and several research facilities. The institute […]