On this date in 1865, the 13th amendment to the Constitution abolishing slavery was ratified by the states. The complex legacy of slavery will always be part of our history; many of our most treasured institutions were built, quite literally, by enslaved people. Was the iconic Smithsonian Castle built with slave labor? Continue reading Slavery and the Smithsonian
Any Castle worth it’s sandstone should be haunted, especially one that keeps its founder in a crypt by the front door. Amy Rogers Nazarov takes us along as she goes ghost hunting. Do you have a spooky story? Share in the comments! Continue reading Ghoulies and ghosties and long-leggety beasties and things that go bump in the night
August 23, 2011. Earthquake! (Did the earth move for you?) Continue reading Today in Smithsonian History: August 23, 2011
August 1, 1848. Dr. Robert Hare donates his inventions to the Smithsonian, where they go on display in the vaguely sinister “Apparatus Room.” Continue reading Today in Smithsonian History: August 1, 1848
Michael Rubin introduces us to Rose Dunn, who brings her experience as an educator to her long career as a Smithsonian volunteer. Continue reading A rose by any other name would still be one of the Smithsonian’s most valued volunteers
In addition to news of a new gallery, a crumbling castle and the rewards of ingenuity, Moko offers a timely reminder to get your flu shot. Continue reading ICYMI: Highlights from the week that was Dec. 2 – Dec. 8, 2018
Human beings have been trying to build a better mousetrap since the first caveman caught the first field mouse stealing a scrap. A new display at the Smithsonian Castle highlights our restless spirit of invention. Continue reading The impulse to innovate is the focus of an inventive new display
Curious teenagers and antique ballgowns have an enthusiastic patron in volunteer Josie Fan. Continue reading A few of my favorite things: Josie Fan
The news was tumultuous this week as we looked back on the 1968 riots, the Standing Rock protests and the Poor People’s campaign. We also previewed some politically charged art exhibitions and wondered if we’d be able to afford to see them. Continue reading ICYMI: Highlights from the week that was Dec. 31, 2017 – Jan. 6, 2018
Smithsonian historian Pamela Henson describes a more pastoral National Mall. Continue reading Throw-back Thursday
A new partnership with award-winning IDW Publishing will produce a series of graphic novels based on Smithsonian stories and collections. Continue reading The Smithsonian gets graphic
From his favorite pizza topping to his secret career aspiration, Secretary Bunch answers 20 questions to begin 2020. Continue reading Twenty Questions for 2020
The recipients of the 2019 Smithsonian Education Awards for Achievement and Innovation were announced by Secretary Bunch Dec. 17. Continue reading 2019 Smithsonian Education Award winners announced
Jane Milosch will pursue her interest in international cultural heritage at the university of Glasgow. Continue reading Jane Milosch is departing for Scotland
Did you know the Smithsonian Tropical Research Center has over 100 volunteers who contributed more than 40,000 hours of service last year? That’s the equivalent of nearly 20 full time staff members! Continue reading Did you know?
This week we learned of an enormous structure of hot gas in the middle of the Milky Way. We’re fairly certain it did not originate on Earth. But then again… Continue reading ICYMI: Highlights from the week than was January 3 – January 10, 2020
January 17, 1883. The Board of Regents asks Congress for more money for the U.S. National Museum. They don't get it. Continue reading Today in Smithsonian History: January 17, 1883
