The Smithsonian Institution, established in 1846 with funds from James Smithson, has evolved into the world's largest museum complex with 16 museums, the National Zoo and various
research centers. Today the Smithsonian is a worldwide symbol of culture, education, exploration and enlightenment.
To experience the wonder of the museum's collections, just follow the links below.
Start at the Smithsonian Information Center where you can see an introduction
to the Smithsonian buildings as well as a valuable map. The Virtual Smithsonian offers an interactive tour through
the museum complex, complete with video highlights.
The National Museum of American History contains several centuries of machines, photographs and other famous
American objects. The museum offers some unique items from pop culture, such as
Dorothy's ruby slippers from the Wizard
Of Oz. Many of their popular exhibitions are available online.
Step inside the gold-domed
building of the Museum of Natural History, home to dinosaur skeletons, the largest African elephant ever
captured, a live insect zoo and the Hope Diamond.
The National Air and Space Museum is the
world's most popular museum with more than 7.5 million visitors every year. See
airplanes
and space vehicles dangle from the ceilings, as well as the Wright
Brothers' original biplane hanging in the entrance gallery. The Space
Wing holds a moon rock, the Skylab space station and the Apollo XI
command module. Be sure to check out the Apollo to the Moon exhibition!
Although the National Portrait Gallery is closed to the public until 2004, you can view some of the Museum’s past
exhibitions.
The National Zoo has tons of animal information and photos. Check out the live cams of elephants, orangutans, komodo dragons and more.
--- M. Scarborough
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