This is the fascinating story of the founding of the Smithsonian Institution.
In 1756, a woman of royal blood in Britain quietly gave birth to a baby boy for the Duke of Northumberland, a noble of high standing. The child, an illegitimate son named James Smithson, was gifted with remarkable talent and a quick mind. Excelling in his studies from a young age, he graduated from Oxford University at 21 and was elected a fellow of the prestigious Royal Society at the age of 22.
A scar and a vow
Despite his achievements, Smithson’s status as an illegitimate child was a scar on his heart, often the subject of ridicule and criticism. In a moment of intense anger, he vowed to his father: “I will make a name for myself in history. Even if the noble surname of Northumberland is forgotten, my name will be eternally remembered.”
A name immortalized in science and philanthropy
To fulfill his bold claim, Smithson devoted himself to the study of science, ultimately becoming a renowned British scientist. The mineral smithsonite is named after him, a testament to his scientific contributions. However, it was a surprising act of philanthropy that truly immortalized his name.
In 1826, at the age of 71, Smithson penned a fascinating will. Should his sole nephew die without heirs, his entire estate would go to the distant government of the United States to establish an institute in Washington, D.C., dedicated to “the increase and diffusion of knowledge.”
The passing of an uncle and his nephew
Smithson passed away in Italy in 1829, followed shortly by his young nephew, who died without issue. It seemed fate ensured that Smithson’s words would ring true, as the Northumberland name faced obscurity. However, the United States did not forget him. President Andrew Jackson dispatched diplomat Richard Rush to England, where a prolonged legal battle ensued over Smithson’s estate.
The legacy secured
Smithson’s wealth, including 104,960 gold sovereigns packed in 11 boxes, his personal belongings, scientific notes, mineral specimens, and book collection, was escorted to the U.S. by Richard Rush, who had served as both Attorney General and Secretary of the Treasury. The gold, valued at US$508,318.46, was deposited into the Philadelphia Mint.
The establishment of the Smithsonian Institution
Debate ensued on how to fulfill Smithson’s bequest. Finally, through multiple compromises, on August 10, 1846, President James K. Polk signed the act establishing the Smithsonian Institution. Congress later restored the funds with interest, ensuring the foundation of the Institution. In 1864, the Smithsonian received the final donation of US$54,165.38 from Mary D.L. Bartie-Smithson, the mother of Smithson’s nephew.
A monumental museum complex
The Smithsonian Institution constructed a grand museum complex in Washington, D.C., named after Smithson. Today, it comprises 16 museums, an art gallery, and a zoo, ranking as one of the largest museum complexes globally. To honor the significance of the Smithsonian, its Board of Regents still includes high-profile positions like the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court, the Vice President, senators, congressmen, and citizens.
A tribute and a final resting place
In an interesting episode, 74 years after Smithson’s death, the Italian government planned to reclaim the land of his burial. The U.S. sent envoys to Italy to repatriate the remains of their benefactor with high honors.
Never having visited America during his lifetime, Smithson’s remains were interred at the Smithsonian Castle, a medieval European-style building in Washington, D.C. There, amidst the Smithsonian museums and under the American flag, Smithson rests in peace, his memorial a testament to trust and a country’s fidelity to an old friend’s memory.
It stands as a monument to integrity, a national promise to an old friend — a collective honoring of a bond made long ago.
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