October 3, 1974. Pioneering journalist Sarah McClendon tours the Hall of News Reporting and shares her thoughts on women in the news business. She’s for it. Continue reading Today in Smithsonian History: October 3, 1974

October 2, 1975. Did you know Emperor Hirohito of Japan was a marine biologist? Neither did we. Continue reading Today in Smithsonian History: October 2, 1975

October 1, 1987. A new exhibition opens, focusing on the civil rights of Japanese Americans during WWII. Continue reading Today in Smithsonian History: October 1, 1987

September 30, 1936. Secretary Abbot tests a solar-powered steam engine of his own design and NBC broadcasts a short program live via solar power. Please note this was in 1936—you’d think we’d have made more progress by now. Continue reading Today in Smithsonian History: September 30, 1936

September 29, 1970. The Tillinghast Reflector is dedicated at the Mount Hopkins Observatory in Arizona. Continue reading Today in Smithsonian History: September 29, 1970

September 28, 1987. Mayor Marion Barry proclaims “Smithsonian Institution Day” as two new museums open in Washington, D.C. Continue reading Today in Smithsonian History: September 28, 1987

September 27, 1976. The Victorian Garden behind the Castle opens to the public. The public promptly complains that the cherry blossoms are not in bloom. Continue reading Today in Smithsonian History: September 27, 1976

September 26, 1971. Smithsonian Institution Archives assumes responsibility for — wait for it—Smithsonian Institution Archives. Continue reading Today in Smithsonian History: September 26, 1971

September 25, 1946. The Smithsonian Centennial Exhibition closes. School children facing educational field trips breathe a sigh of relief. Continue reading Today in Smithsonian History: September 25, 1946

September 24, 1986. The National Forum on Biodiversity ends with a live national teleconference in which thousands from across the country participate. Continue reading Today in Smithsonian History: September 24, 1986