The Smithsonian Institution

Under the leadership of Secretary S.P. Langeley and Assistant Secretary G. Brown Goode, the Smithsonian Institution of the late 19th century enjoyed an international reputation as a leader in scientific research. A new building for the United States National Museum ushered in a period of increased collecting, including a broader scope of the country's material culture. The Arts and Industries Building was constructed in 1881 to house new collections generated by the growing ranks of curators and specialists, including materials transferred to the Smithsonian after the 1876 Centennial Exposition in Philadelphia.

Late-19th-century view of the Smithsonian Castle
Late-19th-century view of the Smithsonian Castle, the United States National Museum Building (today the Arts and Industries Building), and surrounding gardens.

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