Notable Quotable – James Smithson 1829 Tags: 1829, 19th Century Philanthropy, American Exceptionalism, American history, British Chemist, Educational Institutions, Enlightenment Values, Federal Government, History of Science, Increase and Diffusion of Knowledge, James Smithson, James Smithson Quote, Last Will and Testament, Legacy of Knowledge, Museum History, National Museum, Notable Quotable, Scientific Progress, Scientific Research, Smithsonian Institution, Washington D.C., Share on: Share: View our photo collection! View Collection