9 Fascinating Facts About The Founder of the Smithsonian Institute

The Smithsonian Institute has a worldwide reputation as a place of history, learning, and preservation, but the man behind the whole thing is often a mystery. He died well before the science establishment was made a reality, but his legacy remains strong today. Here are 9 facts you had no idea about the man behind the museum: James Smithson.

1) Name Change

His name was changed early in life because he was born in France (to English parents) and initially given a French name, Jacques-Louis Macie. Once back in England at age 9, his name was changed to James Louis.

2) He Was the Illegitimate Son of an English Duke

Resentment over the way things transpired between his parents prompted James to change his name yet again as an adult. His father, once married, became Hugh Percy, the 1st Duke of Northumberland, however his surname before marriage had been Smithson. His mother’s married name had been Macie before her husband died and she became involved in the clandestine affair with the future Duke. Smithson changed his name only once both his parents were deceased.

3) James Smithson Never Once Visited the U.S.

Smithson had an alternate donor in his will should his nephew (his only heir) die without heirs. His wish was that, from his estate and belongings, an institute for learning be established in his name in Washington. Despite having never visited the U.S., Smithson was determined to have his chosen name live onlonger than the name that marked him as illegitimate. Smithson also loved the idea of science for the public, unlike the gentleman’s club of the Royal Society to which he belonged.

4) He Was in Paris during the French Revolution

The scientist, being a progressive man, was enamored that the French public was taking the future of their country into their own hands at last.

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