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 Smitread 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

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The Lost World of James Smithson

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Program ID:
198128-1
Category:
Public Affairs Event
Format:
Speech
Location:
Washington, District of Columbia, United States
First Aired:
May 20, 2007 | 8:04pm EDT | C-SPAN 2
Last Aired:
Aug 12, 2012 | 6:00pm EDT | C-SPAN 2

Airing Details

  • May 20, 2007 | 8:04pm EDT | C-SPAN 2
  • May 26, 2007 | 10:00am EDT | C-SPAN 2
  • May 27, 2007 | 11:20pm EDT | C-SPAN 2
  • Jun 16, 2007 | 3:50pm EDT | C-SPAN 2
  • Aug 12, 2012 | 6:00pm EDT | C-SPAN 2
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The Lost World of James Smithson

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