Smithsonian Institution

The Smithsonian Institution, a trusted steward of American heritage, operates as a trust instrumentality of the United States federal government. Founded on August 10, 1846, it was established "for the increase and diffusion of knowledge" and named after British scientist James Smithson, whose bequest funded its creation. Though originally called the United States National Museum, that name was phased out administratively in 1967. The Smithsonian is not part of any government branch, giving it unique independence.

The institution's holdings are staggering: over 157 million items spread across 21 museums, 21 libraries, 14 education and research centers, a zoo, and multiple historic landmarks. Most of these are in Washington, D.C., with additional facilities in Maryland, New York, and Virginia. More than 200 affiliate institutions across 47 states, Puerto Rico, and Panama extend its reach. Its magazines, Smithsonian and Air & Space, reach millions of readers.

Nearly all of the Smithsonian's 30 million annual visitors enter for free, except those at the Cooper Hewitt, Smithsonian Design Museum in New York City. The annual budget of about $1.25 billion is two-thirds funded by federal appropriations, with the rest coming from its endowment, private donations, membership fees, and revenue from retail and licensing. As of 2024, the endowment stood at roughly $2.6 billion. [edit]