Albert Einstein Supports the Scientific Education Efforts of the Smithsonian Institution

In the 1920s and 1930s, the Smithsonian Institution published a series of twelve science-related books, with the intention of showcasing the Smithsonian Institution’s contribution to American scientific knowledge. Called the Smithsonian Scientific Series, the topics of the books were (1) Smithsonian Institution, (2) The Sun and the Welfare of Man, (3) Minerals from Earth And Sky, (4) North American Indians, (5) Insects, (6) Wild Animals In and Out of the Zoo, (7) Man from the Farthest Past, (8) Cold-Blooded Vertebrates, (9) Warm-Blooded Vertebrates, (10) Shelled Invertebrates, (11) Old and New Plant Lore, and (12) Great Inventions. There were about 1200 plates, color plates (illustrations & paintings) and sepia duotone plates; with laid in explanation of the process and expense involved in developing and designing the series and its art. This set was published in a Patron’s Edition which has the name of the original owner/patron on a page tipped into the set. Patrons came from many walks of life. For example, Albert Einstein and boxer Gene Tunney were both patrons. Patrons received a certification “in recognition of support to the Institution’s program for the diffusion of knowledge.” The series editor has signed each of these books in a designated location.

Patrons signed a document intended to certify their eligibility as a patron. It was entitled “Register of patrons of Smithsonian Scientific Series to be deposited in the archives of Smithsonian Institution Washington.” This is Einstein’s signed document certifying him as a patron. It is truly one of a kind.