Sep

Today in Smithsonian History: September 28, 1987

Ribbon cutting ceremony for the inauguration of the Smithsonian Institution’s two new museums: The Arthur M. Sackler Gallery on the left with pyramided roof, and the National Museum of African Art with domed roof on the right. Hundreds of people crowded the Enid A. Haupt Garden which sits atop the underground museums. This photo was at about 12:25 p.m. as 2,500 blue and yellow balloons filled the sky over the National Mall in Washington, D.C., September 28, 1987. (Photo by Jeff Tinsley)

September 28, 1987 The Quadrangle, the Smithsonian’s underground museum, research and education complex opens to the public. It consists of two major museums—the Arthur M. Sackler Gallery (a museum of Asian art) and the National Museum of African Art—as well as the S. Dillon Ripley Center, and is home to the Smithsonian Institution Traveling Exhibition Service, the International Center, and the National and Resident Associate Programs. Washington, D.C., Mayor Marion Barry proclaims September 28, “Smithsonian Institution Day.”