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National Museum of Natural History

In 1903, Congress appropriated funds for the Natural History Building, which was completed in 1911. Two extensions were added to the original structure in 1963 and 1965, and in 1975 an interior court was filled in at three levels to create additional space mostly for public use.

The National Museum of Natural History has responsibility for the preservation and conservation of nearly sixty million specimens of animals, plants, fossils, rocks, and human artifacts, representing one of the world's major repositories for these materials for both research and exhibition purposes. The Museum's research includes basic work in biology, which is concerned with the classification, distribution, and relationship of living things to their environment. Its scientists and curators conduct extensive original research, and results are made available through publication in national and international journals and through Smithsonian-sponsored publication programs, as well as exhibitions and various education activities. The Museum also administers the Oceanographic Sorting Center, Scientific Event Alert Network, and the Center for the Study of Man.

LOCATION
9th & 12th Sts., Constitution Ave., N.W., Washington, D.C.

SIZE
Main Building
East & West Wings
West Court

1,220,000 gross sq. ft.
1,000,000 net sq. ft.

ACQUISITION
DATE TYPE COST
1911 Construction $3,500,000
1963-65 Construction $18,636,000
1975 Construction $2,965,000 1/

Major Repairs, Renovations, or Improvements
In FY 1979, a comprehensive study of existing fire protection conditions and requirements at Natural History, including as-is drawings and proposed plans and specifications, was developed. The estimate for implementing this work is about $3,000,000, and is planned to be phased through FY 1985 at a cost of $400,000 to $600,000 annually. In addition, about $250,000 will be required annually to renovate and upgrade an aging electrical and heating, ventilating, and air conditioning plant. Also, funding will be sought in future years for attic and basement renovations to house properly collections remaining on the Mall following completion of the Museum Support Center.

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1/ Construction of about 15,000 sq. ft. for restaurant, museum shop and Naturalist Center in the West Court was accomplished with nonappropriated trust funds.