The National Mall in Northwest Washington in Washington, District of Columbia — The American Northeast (Mid-Atlantic)
John Quincy Adams
[Founding of the Smithsonian Institution]
Of all the foundations of establishments for pious or charitable uses which ever signalized the spirit of the age or the comprehensive beneficence of the founder. None can be named more deserving of the appropriation of mankind than the Smithsonian Institution. Should it be faithfully carried into effect with an earnestness and facility of application. Proportioned to the means furnished by the will of the founder and to the greatness and simplicity of his design as by himself declared the increase and diffusion of knowledge among men. His name will be hereafter enrolled among the eminent benefactors of mankind. Whoever increases knowledge multiplies the uses to which he is able to turn the gift of his creator.
John Quincy Adams, 1767-1848
Sixth President of the United States
Erected 1964 by Smithsonian Institution.
Topics and series. This historical marker is listed in these topic lists: Charity & Public Work • Education. In addition, it is included in the Former U.S. Presidents: #06 John Quincy Adams series list.
Location. 38° 53.456′ N, 77° 1.81′ W. Marker is in Northwest Washington in Washington, District of Columbia. It is in The National Mall. Marker is
this page online
Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker. James Smithson (here, next to this marker); Common Ground (a few steps from this marker); Ingenuity (a few steps from this marker); Discovery (a few steps from this marker); Joseph Henry (within shouting distance of this marker); a different marker also named Common Ground (within shouting distance of this marker); Healing (within shouting distance of this marker); Memory (within shouting distance of this marker). Touch for a list and map of all markers in Northwest Washington.
Credits. This page was last revised on January 30, 2023. It was originally submitted on November 27, 2022, by Devry Becker Jones of Washington, District of Columbia. This page has been viewed 92 times since then and 24 times this year. Photos: 1, 2. submitted on November 27, 2022, by Devry Becker Jones of Washington, District of Columbia.
