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SMITHSONIAN INSTITUTION  1508

the Standing Committee of the Federal Council for Science and Technology. This committee is intended in an advisory was to coordinate the planning for research of the governmental departments that are engaged in scientific investigations and in supporting scientific research in colleges, universities and research organizations. In assuming this duty the Secretary pointed out that he could not forget that the Smithsonian Institution itself was the first organization on this continent to provide a full-time staff of research workers in diversified scientific fields. 
It was further indicated that notable gifts continue to come to the Smithsonian Institution. Two examples were given: that of what is probably the largest black diamond in any museum and an admirable collection of astrolabes, purchased for the Institution by Mr. Thomas Watson, Jr. of the International Business Machines Corporation. It was reported that the Institution had also recently been given the first National Cash Register and many other scientific and industrial instruments and devices.
It was also mentioned that the Institution's legal advisers were working on a plan to accept as a gift the so-called Barney Studio House located on Sheridan Circle here in Washington. It is expected that this house, if given to the Smithsonian, can be leased to groups interested in the promotion of art in Washington, and produce a satisfactory income. If this plan does not approve feasible, the donors agree that at a proper time the house may be sold and the purchase price added to the existing Barney Fund of the Smithsonian that is used for the encouragement of American artistic endeavor.
There was discussion concerning the pros and cons of the wisdom of accepting this gift. On motion by Dr. Fleming, seconded by Senator Fulbright, and carried it was

VOTED that the Board of Regents authorizes the acceptance of the gift of Mrs. Laura Dreyfus Barney and Miss Natalie Clifford Barney of their house at 2306 Massachusetts Avenue, N.W., Washington, D.C., provided