James Smithson believed knowledge benefited everyone, and that sharing it freely could change the world for the better. That's why he left his legacy to America with explicit instructions to create "an establishment for the increase and diffusion of knowledge." Almost 175 years and generations of donors later, the Smithsonian is the largest museum, research and education complex in the world.
That's the power a single gift can have. What will your gift do?
Learn more about the remarkable story of philanthropy at the Smithsonian »
Ways to Give
Friends of the Smithsonian
At the heart of the Smithsonian’s achievements in preservation, conversation, and discovery are the people who sustain our commitment to celebrating our nation’s history and fostering future knowledge. Learn more about Friends of the Smithsonian membership, giving levels, and benefits »
The Impact of Your Gift
Your gift fuels innovation, inspiration and exploration for lifelong learners everywhere. See recent highlights in our latest issue of IMPACT.
