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SMITHSONIAN INSTITUTION

Chancellor mentioned that this matter had been thoroughly discussed in the early days of planning for an Armed Forces Museum with Major General Kenyon A. Joyce, the original sponsor, who had had in mind an expensive building similar to the Museum of History and Technology, rather than an outdoor park. Senator Saltonstall stated it was his understanding that the Board's function was to formulate plans, stressing the fact that the Smithsonian was already involved in several building projects. Mr. Cannon concurred. 

Dr. Brown said that the constructive peacetime activities of the armed services should not be overlooked in the planning. He suggested that the first thing is to get possession of a suitable piece of real estate now owned by the Government. The eventual plan would probably call for a simple type of museum building for objects that cannot be maintained outdoors. The acquisition of a site would be a great step forward. 

The Secretary reported that Mrs. Joyce had been kept informed of the progress that the Board had made and was thinking of making a bequest to the Institution.

PROPOSED RESTORATION AND RENOVATION OF THE ORIGINAL SMITHSONIAN BUILDING

The Secretary appreciated Senator Saltonstall's comment about the number of building projects active at the present time, but said he felt nevertheless that the proposed restoration and renovation of the original Smithsonian Building to provide proper facilities for its use as a historic museum, laboratory, and principal administrative headquarters for the Institution should be presented for consideration of the Regents. The Secretary said he realized that this might not be the time to initiate its renovation. The building was one of the first departures from the neoclassic style. It was designed by James Renwick, Jr., first President of the American Institute of Architects. Sketch plans have been prepared to provide some suggestions for renovation and the preliminary construction cost has been estimated at $3,589,000. It is considered that there would be a great advantage to the Smithsonian if an underground parking garage could be developed, at a cost of $4,240,000. The total estimated cost would be in the range of $7,829,000. The Secretary emphasized that these were