Sep
23

Today in Smithsonian History: September 23, 1916

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September 23, 1916 At the groundbreaking for the Freer Gallery of Art, Acting Secretary Richard Rathbun gives a brief address and turns the first shovel full of earth to start the construction of the new museum.

The image shows a crowd of people observing the event. While not all of the individuals are identified, several names are listed on the back of the print, including: H. W. Dorsey, C. R. Aschemeier, J. S. Pollock, Joseph Mace, George T. Mace, Richard Rathbun, Ms. M. V. Young, James G. Traylor, Charles Greeley Abbot (fifth Secretary of the Smithsonian Institution, 1928-1944), E. L. Springer, D. L. Stejneger, and Ms. M. E. deRonceray

Courtesy of Smithsonian Institution Archives

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Posted: 23 September 2019
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