James Smithson

Guardians of an Extraordinary Legacy

Mark your calendars for the Annual Smithsonian Weekend September 26 – 28, 2013.

Honor the legacy of Smithsonian benefactor James Smithson.

Become a part of a committed community of donors, the Smithsonian’s most distinctive circle of membership: The James Smithson Society.

For your donation of $2,500 or more, you will enjoy exceptional and exclusive membership privileges, such as:

  • Recognition of your gift in the Smithsonian’s annual report
  • Personalized service provided by dedicated Smithsonian staff
  • Private receptions held in cities around the country, and more

If you live in or make a visit to the Washington, DC area, you will also be able to experience:

  • Private receptions at members-only events
  • Revealing behind-the-scenes tours
  • Invitations to the Smithson Society Annual Members’ Weekend

Your deep commitment as a Smithson Society member supports the important endeavors of the Smithsonian. For 30 years, Smithson Society members have recognized that the Smithsonian’s continuing excellence depends on the same willingness to imagine and endow that James Smithson himself brought to its creation.

Join the James Smithson Society today.

A Sustaining Fellows Membership

honors your ongoing cumulative giving to the Friends of the Smithsonian.

John Quincy Adams Circle Membership

Join today to help further the Smithsonian’s work in art, history, culture and science.

Learn the fascinating story of Smithsonian benefactor James Smithson.

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Society Member Profile

Theron and Nancy Patrick
Springfield, VA
"We have been members of the Smithsonian for 20 years; and being members of the James Smithson Society engages us in unique opportunities. Each encounter is meticulously choreographed for optimum enjoyment. Entering a museum at night, talking to a museum director, walking on the new elephant trail, or going behind 'Staff Only' doors fills us with childlike awe in each new experience. Whatever new experience is presented to us we know it will be incomparable and our expectations will be exceeded."