Today in Smithsonian History: December 1, 1848

The first volume of Smithsonian Contributions to Knowledge.

December 1, 1848 The first volume of Smithsonian Contributions to Knowledge is published.  “Ancient Monuments of the Mississippi Valley,” comprising the results of Extensive Original Surveys and Explorations, by E. G. Squier and E. H. Davis, is illustrated by 48 lithographic plates and 207 wood engravings.  The manuscript was submitted to Secretary Joseph Henry on May 15, 1847, who then requested that members of the American Ethnological Society review it. They quickly sent a favorable review. Henry reports that the publication quality of the volume compares with any publication ever issued from the American press and decides against copyrighting this or any Smithsonian publications. The first volume of Contributions will be distributed to learned societies in approximately 25 foreign countries.

Courtesy of Smithsonian Institution Archives

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