The Lost World of James Smithson
Architectural historian Heather Ewing talked about her book The Lost World of James Smithson: Science, Revolution, and the Birth of the Smit… read more
Architectural historian Heather Ewing talked about her book The Lost World of James Smithson: Science, Revolution, and the Birth of the Smithsonian, published by Bloomsbury USA. She recounted the life of James Smithson, the benefactor of the Smithsonian Institution. She said he bequeathed his fortune to create “an establishment for the increase and diffusion of knowledge among men” in Washington, DC. He left no further instructions and to this day it is not known why he made this bequest. He had never even visited the United States. The Smithsonian Institution was founded in 1846 after great debate in Congress as to how to use Smithson’s gift. Ms. Ewing described researching her book in England. After her presentation she responded to audience members' questions. close
People in this video
Books
-
The Lost World of James Smithson