The James Smithson Society

Guardians of an Extraordinary Legacy

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

Judy Cherwinka
Wausau, WI
"I joined the Smithson Society because of the important role the Smithsonian plays in preserving the United States’ history and culture, which is so important to human knowledge, for Americans and citizens of the world.”