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The Smithsonian's first building, popularly known as the
Castle, houses the Institutions administrative offices
and the Smithsonian
Information Center.
Highlights: 18-minute video orientation, two interactive
touch-screen stations with information on the Smithsonian
in six languages, and one scale model of the federal city
1000 Jefferson Drive
SW
Metro Station: Smithsonian (Mall exit)
Hours: 8:30am to 5:30pm |
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Completed
in 1855, the original Smithsonian Institution Building was designed
by architect James Renwick Jr., whose other works include St.
Patricks Cathedral in New York City and the Smithsonians
Renwick Gallery in Washington, D.C. This Washington landmark
is constructed of red sandstone from Seneca Creek, Maryland,
in the Norman style (a 12th-century combination of late Romanesque
and early Gothic motifs). |
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Over
the years several reconstructions
have taken place. The first followed a disastrous fire on January
24, 1865, which destroyed the upper story of the main segment
and the north and south towers. In 1884, the east wing was fireproofed
and enlarged to accommodate more offices. Remodeling from 1968
to 1969 restored the building to the Victorian atmosphere reminiscent
of the era during which it was first inhabited. |
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This building served as a home
for the first Secretary of the Smithsonian Joseph Henry and
his family and for many years housed all aspects of Smithsonian
operations, including an exhibit hall from 1858 until the 1960s.
In 1901, Washingtons first childrens room was installed
in the Castles South Tower Room where the original decorated
ceiling and wall stencils were restored in 1987. Located inside
near the north entrance is the crypt of James Smithson, benefactor
of the Institution, while outside on the Mall, a bronze statue
of Joseph Henry, executed by William Wetmore Story, honors the
eminent scientist who was the Institutions first Secretary. |
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