Smithsonian Institute Building -
The Castle
A red Seneca sandstone finish in
a Faux Norman style, the Smithsonian
Institution Building was the first
among the Smithsonian buildings
built in 1847 by architect James
Renwick Jr. Aptly, nicknamed “The
Castle”. It is situated in National
Mall, Washington DC, serving as the
focal point for the striking
landscape and collection of
structures.
The Castle is divided into a central
section, two extensions, and two
wings. Nine towers crown its top
with four of the towers
habitable, while the remaining five
smaller towers are mostly decorative
adding
to the Romanesque and Gothic
theme of the castle. The East Wing,
completed in 1849, was once
occupied by Secretary Joseph
Henry himself and his family.
An unfortunate 1865 fire caused
extensive damage that destroyed a
number of valuable artifacts
including the files and
correspondences of James Smithson,
Henry; two hundred of J.M. Stanley
oil paintings of American Indians;
and the collection of the public
libraries of Alexandria, Virginia
and Beaufort, South Carolina. All of
which, were confiscated by Union
forces during the American Civil
War.
Now “The Castle” serves as the
Smithsonian’s administrative offices
and information center with the
main visitor center located here.
Electronic displays, maps and
computers offer visitors guidance as
well as answers to common questions
about the Smithsonian. |
