Tom D. Crouch, a Smithsonian veteran of almost 45 years, paints a robust picture of a unique American establishment and its lasting legacies in his book Smithson’s Gamble and, on Tuesday, February 24, Edison Public Library cardholders can join a virtual discussion to learn about the trails, errors, and incredible legacy of the Smithsonian’s foundation.
The Smithsonian evolved from a small, narrowly focused organization into an institution leading the way in fields from astrophysics to zoology. Smithsonian researchers, and the hundreds of citizen scientists who they recruited, created a collection that documented the natural and human history of a continent.
Following the fascinating growth and development of the world's largest museum and research complex during its first 60 years, Smithson’s Gamble is told in rich detail and filled with fascinating characters, twists and turns, triumph and tragedy. In this book, Crouch reveals how, as it defined a role rooted in curiosity and exploration, the Smithsonian helped to shape the nation's developing identity.
Register now to join the 2:00pm discussion and to submit questions to the author. |
