14 Interesting Smithsonian Castle Facts
Did you know that the first Smithsonian Institution Building is nicknamed "The Castle?" In this post, you'll discover the ultimate list of Smithsonian Castle facts, one of the most distinctive landmarks in Washington D.C. Interesting Smithsonian Castle facts 1. The Castle is located near the National Mall The Smithsonian Castle was the first building to be constructed for the Smithsonian Institution. It's therefore also referred to as the "Smithsonian Institution Building," and is nicknamed "The Castle" because of its design. The Smithsonian consists of a number of research centers and museums which are managed by the government of the United States. It's located right near the National Mall on Jefferson Drive, behind the Smithsonian Museum of African Art and the Sackler Gallery, and in between the Washington Monument and the Capitol Building. 2. It was built halfway the 19th century Construction of the building started all the way back in 1847 and just two years later, the first secretary of the institution, Joseph Smith, and his family moved into the East Wing. The building was financed by the bequest of $500,000 from James Smithson (1765-1829), a renowned English scientist after which the institution was named. The exterior was completed by 1852 and the exterior by 1855, which marked the completion of the building. James Smithson in 1816. / Wiki Commons 3. Read the full article