“A museum is a place where nothing was lost, just rediscovered…” ― Nanette Avery
On June 27, 1829 (190 years ago this week), British mineralogist and chemist James Smithson passed away, directing in his will that £87,620 be given to the United States for “an establishment for the increase and diffusion of knowledge.” That establishment would go on to become the Smithsonian Institution. In honor of Smithson’s enduring endowment, this week we share some history on Smithson himself and some links to start you on your own path of discovery through the vast resources and collections of the Smithsonian Institution.
Founding donor, James Smithson
“How James Smithson’s Money Built the Smithsonian”
The National Museum of African American History and Culture: the newest Smithsonian museum
Nature by Design at Cooper Hewitt
Smithsonian Folkways Recordings (Find Textile Voices: Songs and Stories of the Mills by Joe Glazer here and learn about our Project Threadways here)
Portraits: A Podcast from the National Portrait Gallery
The Smithsonian’s History of America in 101 Objects by Richard Kurin
Read about Alabama Chanin at Cooper Hewitt here and here and at the Smithsonian Institute here.
In Alabama: Alabama Wall 1, by William Christenberry, Smithsonian American Art Museum
@ The Factory Café
Burger Friday is this Friday. Join us with a party of 6 and receive a 20% discount on your meals. Find all the details and reserve your table here.
Join us for the first in a series of three Canning Workshops this Tuesday, June 25th, at The Factory. Learn how to “put up” summer fruits for your winter pantry. Reserve your spot here.
Back by popular demand is the Artisan Pizza Workshop. Join us this Thursday, June 27th, at The Factory. Advanced registration is required.