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In 1826 James Smithson created a remarkable and unprecedented legacy gift to the United States. Smithson's bequest through his will led to the establishment of the Smithsonian Institution in 1846 "for the increase and diffusion of knowledge." Since then, many visionary individuals have helped to advance the Institution's tradition of excellence through bequests and other legacy gifts. The Smithsonian Legacy Society honors and recognizes the generosity and vision of those who, like James Smithson, have chosen to leave a legacy to the nation through estate or deferred gifts to the Institution. Legacy donors receive special recognition in Smithsonian publications and invitations to annual Society activities. The Institution will also honor requests for donor anonymity. Honorees of the society may choose to designate their gifts to the Institution at large or to specific Smithsonian museums, programs, or research initiatives. Enrollment in this honorary society is simply a matter of advising the Institution of the creation of a legacy gift: a bequest in a will or living trust; a charitable gift annuity; a charitable remainder trust; a Smithsonian pooled income fund gift; or designation as beneficiary of a retirement plan or life insurance policy. For additional information or enrollment in the Smithsonian Legacy Society, please contact: The
Smithsonian Legacy Society |