When Was the Air and Space Museum Built? A Historical Overview
Discover the origins of the Air and Space Museum in this historical journey – when was it built and how it became an iconic institution.
Smithsonian
Since founding the Smithsonian Institution in 1846, unique museums have risen across the National Mall to form the world’s largest museum, education, and research complex. As both an architectural anchor within Washington’s monumental core and an intellectual hub preserving global heritage, the ever-evolving Smithsonian legacy still shapes America’s capital today.
Why Is It Named The Smithsonian?
Did you know our greatest museum was funded by and named for an Englishman who never set foot in the United States? Read up on the origins of the Smithsonian and how it was born in our nation’s capital.
Early Rejected Designs for the National Air and Space Museum
In 1958, President Eisenhower approved plans for a National Air Museum. See some of the fascinating and beautiful designs that didn’t make it.
Tracing the Construction of the Arts and Industries Building on the Mall in Washington, DC
Take a journey through time and explore the construction of the Arts and Industries Building on the Mall in Washington, DC. From the 1879 photo to the 1878 rendering to the finished product, see it all!
What a Lovely Old Photo of the Smithsonian Castle in 1856
Take a look back in time at this beautiful 1856 photo of the Smithsonian Castle. Click to see incredible details from Ghosts of DC.
Exploring the Proposed Design for the Smithsonian Castle in 1846
Discover the proposed design for the Smithsonian Castle from 1846. Learn about the Gothic design with three stories, a central tower/cupola, crenellated embattlements, and symmetrical wings from the Building Committee of the Board of Regents.
The Smithsonian Castle in its Original Splendor: A View of DC’s Iconic Building in 1863
Take a step back in time and explore a Civil War-era photo of Independence Ave. This incredible photo showcases the Smithsonian Institution Building and the U.S. Capitol dome, taken before the 1865 fire. Source: Smithsonian Archives.
The Mall in DC: A Beautiful View from the Early 20th Century
Take a look at this incredible view of the Mall in Washington DC from the early 20th century. See how this iconic area has changed over time – a truly spectacular sight!
1886 Panorama of D.C. from Smithsonian Castle
What an incredible 360-degree panorama of Washington from 1886. This image was taken from the top of the Smithsonian Castle. Don’t miss it!
Exploring an 1857 View of Washington, D.C. with the Smithsonian in the Distance
Explore an 1857 view of Washington, D.C. with the Smithsonian in the distance. Click on the image for a larger version to study. See if you can spot the Washington Monument just out of the frame on the right.