This is James Smithson, an English scientist, illegitimate son of a duke. Smithson had never been to the United States, but in 1829 he left his entire fortune ($508,318) to "the United States of America to found . . .an establishment for the increase and diffusion of knowledge among men." There was much debate in Congress as to whether this gift should be accepted. But Congress in 1836 passed legislation authorizing acceptance of the gift. John Quincy Adama, who served in the House of Representatives after serving as president, was influential in the acceptance of the gift as well as in making sure the money was used for its intended purpose. This was the beginning of the Smithsonian Institution, the world's largest museum and research complex, with 19 museums and 9 research centers. My lead on this story came from the book by Nina Burleigh, entitled " The Stranger and the Statesman," a subject of Jan's book discussion group.
1 comment:
I have no doubt that John Q. Adams pushed Congress to accept the Smithson gift. However, he was then a member of Congress, having been President from 1825 to 1829.
Fact still is, you taught me something new about our Sixth President, who was, as I'm sure you know, also anti-slavery.
Jerry Daily
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