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SMITHSONIAN INSTITUTION   1435

PROGRESS OF PLANS FOR MUSEUM OF HISTORY AND TECHNOLOGY BUILDING

The Secretary discussed building costs of the Museum of History and Technology of the Smithsonian Institution showing that a specialized museum building would cost more than was calculated in the preliminary estimates. A map indicating the exact location of the new building was presented. He then showed a drawing of the front elevation of the building illustrating the problem faced by the architects who had to begin their plans with the inside of the building and work toward the outside. The problem of space requirements had to be met as well as appropriateness of the architecture to buildings on The Mall and those of the Federal Triangle. A second elevation of a building with wings was also mentioned.

The Secretary mentioned that the appropriation of $36,000,000 would not now erect a building of the size originally planned. It was pointed out that this is the first time in 50 years Federal funds have been appropriated for a museum. It was further pointed out that rise in construction costs is only part of the difficulty. Because of the unique character of the building there were certain omissions made in the estimates of the Public Buildings Service.

INSTALLATION OF ACTING CHAIRMAN

As the Chancellor had to leave for the Supreme Court he relinquished the chair to Dr. Robert V. Fleming, Chairman of the Executive Committee, at 10:38 a.m.

After discussion of the fact that similar situations have arisen in the appropriations for other Federal buildings it was suggested that it would be wise to present the need for additional funds to the appropriate authorities.

Senator Anderson moved, and Senator Smith seconded, the motion that a resolution be drafted along the lines proposed by Senator Saltonstall, with the understanding that it would be approved by the Chairman of the Executive Committee and the Secretary. This motion was unanimously VOTED.