When did the Smithsonian Castle Close?
Until 1881, it housed all aspects of Smithsonian operations, including research, administration, lecture and exhibit halls, library, laboratories, collections storage, and living quarters for the Secretary. Today, the Castle houses administrative offices and the Smithsonian Information Center.
Can you go into the Smithsonian Castle?
The Castle is free to visit. It is open daily from 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. The castle’s free docent-led tours of the building take place at 9 a.m. and 1:30 p.m.
What is under the Smithsonian Castle?
Over the years, the Castle has been home to the Smithsonian Institution Archives and the Woodrow Wilson International Center for Scholars. Today, the Castle houses the Institution’s administrative offices and the Smithsonian Information Center.
Why is the Smithsonian Castle closed?
After an initial assessment, Smithsonian officials said “the most serious structural damage” from Tuesday’s earthquake was to the Smithsonian Castle and a storage facility in Suitland, Md. The Castle, the oldest building on the National Mall, will remain closed to visitors and staff.
What is to the left of the Smithsonian Castle?
On the left side is a statue of Samuel Francis Du Pont, also in grayscale, surrounded by leaves, with two crossed American flags below it, in color. c. 1898-1901, Washington Souvenir Co., Courtesy of a private collector, No copy available at the Smithsonian Institution Archives.
Is the Smithsonian Castle worth visiting?
The building is quite odd and the eccentric collections contained within are well worth seeing. Strange that an Englishman who’d never visited America should start the endowment.
Are backpacks allowed in Washington, DC museums?
We allow backpacks in our museum. Visitors are permitted to bring food and beverages in sealed containers inside a backpack or other bag. Food and beverages may not be consumed in the museum.
Is the Smithsonian castle worth visiting?