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Smithsonian Institution Building

"The Castle"

The Smithsonian's first building houses the Institutions administrative offices and the Smithsonian Information Center. 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. Several reconstructions have taken place.

The 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. Located inside near the north entrance is the crypt of James Smithson, benefactor of the Institution.

Prior to touring the other Smithsonian museums, stop here for the 24-minute video orientation and interactive touch-screen stations with information on the Smithsonian in six languages.

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Visit Online Highways' interactive American History project. A team of researchers is developing a site that will present U.S. history in the context of present day travel.