The Smithsonian's conservator, William Bennett, receives a 200-year-old legal document revealing a scandalous family history behind the founding of the Smithsonian. The podcast explores the challenges of deciphering the document, the lawsuits and drama of the Hungerford family, and the legacy of James Smithson, the founder of the Smithsonian Institution.
The founding of the Smithsonian Institution was influenced by a family feud and lawsuits surrounding the Hungerford deed.
James Smithson, despite societal challenges, became a renowned scientist and left his fortune for the establishment of the Smithsonian Institution.
Deep dives
The Hungerford Deed: The Origins of the Smithsonian
The podcast episode dives into the mystery behind the creation of the Smithsonian Institution and how it is connected to the Hungerford family. The episode explores the life of Elizabeth Macy, a childless widow who had an illegitimate child with the Duke of Northumberland. The Hungerford deed, which divided the inherited lands between Elizabeth and her sister, plays a crucial role in the story. It highlights the family feud and lawsuits that ensued, ultimately impacting the establishment of the Smithsonian. The episode also discusses the life of James Macy (later known as James Smithson), the son of Elizabeth Macy, and how he changed his name and left a substantial fortune to the United States, resulting in the founding of the Smithsonian Institution.
James Smithson: Science and Legacy
This part of the podcast episode delves into the life and accomplishments of James Smithson. Despite being an illegitimate child and facing societal challenges, he grew up to become a renowned chemist and mineralogist. Smithson made significant contributions to the scientific field, discovering a new mineral and publishing numerous scientific papers. He sought solace in science and aspired to create a legacy for himself through his work. The episode also discusses his philanthropic act of bequeathing his entire fortune to the United States, leading to the establishment of the Smithsonian Institution.
The Crypt and Recognition of James Smithson
The final part of the podcast episode focuses on the intriguing story behind James Smithson's burial and the recognition of his legacy. After being exhumed and brought to the United States, Smithson was laid to rest in a crypt in the Smithsonian Castle. The episode describes the unique memorial design inside the crypt, featuring Smithson's grave marker, stained glass window, and urn-like structure. It highlights the irony that James Smithson, the founder of the internationally recognized Smithsonian Institution, remains relatively unknown to many, with his legacy often overshadowed by the institution itself.
When a 200-year-old legal document anonymously arrived at his office, Smithsonian Libraries and Archives conservator William Bennett assumed it would be full of boring legal jargon. Instead, he found a juicy tale of family betrayal that would forever change what we thought we knew about the founding of the Smithsonian. In honor of the Smithsonian’s 177th birthday, we’re sharing one of our favorite stories from the Sidedoor collection.
Guests:
William Bennett, conservator at the Smithsonian Institution Libraries and Archives
