Smithsonian Stories

Reverend Harold Anderson's film documents everyday life in the Greenwood neighborhood of Tulsa, Oklahoma, during the late 1940s and early 1950s. 

Animal keepers are gearing up to keep an extra close eye on their charges.

This summer, billions of these bugs will appear in fifteen states east of the Mississippi River.

“May your religious holiday be blessed." Eid al-Fitr, or "The Feast of Breaking the Fast," marks the end of Ramadan.

"Red Five Standing By!"

Learn about the origins of the holiday and frozen margaritas.

Learn how scientists are translating data captured by telescopes into sound. 

We celebrate the life of the museum's former director and astronaut Michael Collins, the command module pilot for Apollo 11, the first human landing on the Moon, in July 1969.

Hey, cool cats, it's Jazz Appreciation Month!

Through our collections, we connect stories of science and history.

These butterflies illustrate one of thousands of pages detailing natural history in Central America.

Learn about the precautionary public health measures that the Smithsonian followed in 1918.

Decorated using wax and dye, these eggs are exchanged at Easter to symbolize new life.

For more than 20 years, Suzanne Asbury-Oliver was the only professional woman skywriter in the world.

Learn how the community of Mardi Gras practitioners and artists have found comfort and support in each other. 

The network's pioneering “Unmask Your Creativity Contest” inspired entries from all over the world.

A seder plate, candles, and family gathered around the table can be seen in this seder textile created by a 10-year-old student.

Four short videos highlight women who organized their communities to make change.

“Stay tuned for true black hole cinema.”

To many, Ella Jenkins is solely the First Lady of Children’s Music, however her career has always been tied to the fight for equality.

Learn what makes these spectacular pink blooms different from those of Washington, D.C.'s, famous cherry blossoms.

Jane C. Webb Loudon made horticulture accessible for women to pursue as a hobby.

Sister Rosetta Tharpe is often called the "Godmother of Rock 'n' Roll."

Get to know women who worked in their communities to advocate for the right to vote.