Celebrating the Smithsonian’s 178th Anniversary

After 10 years of heated debate, on August 10, 1846, President James K. Polk signed legislation establishing the Smithsonian Institution for the “increase and diffusion of knowledge.”  The legislation called for the creation of a Board of Regents, a Chancellor, and the Secretary; a “suitable” building with rooms for the “reception and arrangement” of objects of natural history, a chemical laboratory, a library, a gallery of art, and lecture rooms; the transfer to the Institution of “all objects of art, natural history, etc.,” then belonging to the United States in Washington; and the deposit in the Smithsonian of one copy of all publications copyrighted under the acts of Congress. Within the next nine months, a Board and Chancellor, Vice President George Mifflin Dallas, were appointed, a Secretary, Joseph Henry, elected, and the cornerstone laid for the Castle.

The “increase and diffusion of knowledge” has been at the heart of everything the Smithsonian has done, and since 1846, we have proudly shared our accomplishments with hundreds of millions of people across America and around the world. The successes of the Smithsonian reflect the work of our dedicated and diverse staff and volunteers, from our first employee, William McPeake, to all of you here today.

Since its establishment, the Smithsonian has become the world’s largest museum, education, and research complex, with 21 museums, the National Zoo, nine research facilities and many educational organizations. Our 178th anniversary presents us with both a unique opportunity and also reminds us of an urgent obligation—to share our spirit of learning and optimism and help shape Our Shared Future. With that in mind, this anniversary coincides with a period of exceptional activity across the Smithsonian to prepare for another significant milestone, the nation’s 250th anniversary in 2026. As One Smithsonian, we are developing ways to help Americans celebrate, reflect, and come together by reminding them of where we have been, who we are and what we can be. The opportunities surrounding the 250th inspire me. I look forward to working with you to demonstrate to the nation how we fulfill the Smithsonian’s pivotal role to discover, interpret, and share our knowledge of history, art, culture, and science.