Happy Anniversary, Smithsonian Institute!
In 1876, British scientist James Smithson drew up his last will and testament, naming his nephew as sole beneficiary. Smithson included the stipulation that should the nephew die without heirs (which he did), the estate should go to “The United States of America, to found at Washington, under the name of the Smithsonian Institution, an establishment for the increase and diffusion of knowledge among men.” It’s still unclear as to why Smithson chose the United States for his institution, as he didn’t have many contacts. It’s thought that he possibly did it to defy the rigidity of British society, as Smithson was illegitimate and was not permitted to use his father’s name. It’s also been suggested that he supported US ideals of democracy and universal education.
After 8 years of debate, an Act of Congress signed by President James K. Polk on August 10, 1846 established the Smithsonian Institute as a trust to be administered by a board of Regents and a Secretary of the Smithsonian.
It’s scientists like Smithson who paved the way for institutions like our own Academy of Sciences and who realized early on that education for all is so important.
