Smithsonian Arts and Industries Building

The Arts and Industries Building is the second oldest of the Smithsonian museums on the National Mall. Initially named the National Museum, it was built to provide the Smithsonian with its first proper facility for public display of its growing collections. The building, designed by architects Adolf Cluss and Paul Schulze, opened in 1881, hosting an inaugural ball for President James A. Garfield. It was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1971. After being closed for renovation, the building opened in the spring of 2016 for events and exhibitions.

The Arts and Industries Building was sited slightly farther back from the Mall than the Smithsonian Castle to avoid obscuring the view of the Castle from the Capitol. The building was designed to be symmetrical, composed of a Greek cross with a central rotunda.

Nov 2016, Photo 351

Smithsonian Arts and Industries Building

A sculpture entitled Columbia Protecting Science and Industry by sculptor Caspar Buberl was placed above the main entrance on the north side.

Nov 2016, Photo 351d

Smithsonian Arts and Industries Building

Nov 2016, Photo 359

Smithsonian Arts and Industries Building

Nov 2016, Photo 360