INTRODUCTION. 



The Smithsonian Institution has attained a world-wide reputation, and its 

 influence and importance are constantly extending. Its publications are found 

 not only in the public libraries of our own land, but also in those of every other 

 civilized country. Its correspondents include some of the most distinguished 

 cultivators of science of the present day, and it is referred to as a center of infor- 

 mation by those who are interested in the pursuit of knowledge. 



Many persons, however, who visit Washington, are but imperfectly acquainted 

 with the history of Smithson, the great object he had in view, the plans adopted 

 to carry out his intentions, and the results already obtained. It is for the pur- 

 pose of furnishing more definite information on these points that this work has 

 been compiled, from the annual reports of the Secretary, Professor Henry, to the 

 Board of Regents, and other authentic sources. 



After a considerable part of the manuscript had been prepared, it was furnished 

 by request for publication in the United States Magazine, and the illustrations 

 relative to the building were procured from the proprietors of that journal. 



