November 13, 1876. The National Academy of Sciences asks the President to transfer the Centennial collection to the Smithsonian. The fact that Joseph Henry, Secretary of the Smithsonian, is also president of the National Academy has nothing to do with it. Continue reading Today in Smithsonian History: November 13, 1876

November 12, 1980. Space geeks throng the Air and Space Museum to celebrate Voyager I’s approach to Saturn. Continue reading Today in Smithsonian History: November 12, 1980

November 11, 1921. The National Museum is closed in honor of the burial of America’s unknown soldier. Continue reading Today in Smithsonian History: November 11, 1921

November 10, 1958. The famed Hope Diamond arrives at the Smithsonian via registered mail. Really. Continue reading Today in Smithsonian History: November 10, 1958

November 9, 1977. What Smithsonian object provoked “Tarzan’s Savage Fury?” Okay, we’re reaching, but play along. Continue reading Today in Smithsonian History: November 9, 1977

November 8, 1931. Art collector John Gellatly dies two years after giving his art collection to what is now the Smithsonian American Art Museum. We are not aware of any connection between the two events. Continue reading Today in Smithsonian History: November 8, 1931

November 7, 1966. Congress authorizes the construction of the Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden. Continue reading Today in Smithsonian History: November 7, 1966

November 6, 1990. An agreement for a new National Postal Museum gets the stamp of approval. Continue reading Today in Smithsonian History: November 6, 1990

November 5, 1954. Mamie Eisenhower and the Queen Mum take a tour of the First Ladies collection. Continue reading Today in Smithsonian History: November 5, 1954

November 4, 1981. Nancy Reagan donates her ballgown to the First Ladies’ Collection. Continue reading Today in Smithsonian History: November 4, 1981