Washington sentinel. [volume] (Washington [D.C.]) 1853-1855, 1854-08-13
From the Louisville Journal.
Smithsonian Institution,


We have noticed with regret rumor that
Professor Henry entertains thoughts Of retiring
from the Smithsonian Institution, the affairs of
which be has administered with so much ability
since its inception. We should regard the re-
signation of Professor Henry as calamity to
American letters and science In the first
place, il would not be an easy matter to find
in our country the equal Of this gentleman in
learning, judgment, strong natural sense, firm
ness, and scientific reputation and in man
aging the affairs Of such an institution it is i'm.
portant TO have chief combining all these
qualities. In the second place, Professor
Henry has now had. several years experience
in the supervision and direction Of the complex
business of the institute; and has acquired
knowledge Of it which his successor, however
competent, could not at once possess. But,
more than all, there is great danger that, with
change Of officers, there would also be
change in the policy Of the institution. Much
contrariety of views has existed among the lead
ing men Of our country in reference to the best
mode Of applying the munifcent bequest of
Smithson. Some have advocated the erection
Of observatories for the promotion Of astronomi-
cal science. One party strongly urged the
founding in Washington Of great university !;
others have proposed the collection there of
great library and museum Of natural history.
Professor Henry has insisted that none Of these
schemes fulfilled the design Of the donor in the
bequest, which was TO increase and difnse
knorledge among men !" and through his influ-
ence system was introduced which could not
now be changed, in our opinion, without great
detriment to the best interests Of science and
learning.
We are fully persuaded that the plan of ope-
rations adopted by the regents of the Institute
is the best that could have been devised, and
we should deplore any movement which jeo
parded its continuance.
The system of actiUe operations is the one to
which Prof Henry is particularly devoted. His
especial desire is to maintain system Of origi-
nal research and discovery, having in view the
increase of knowledge among men, for be sees
that its diffusion must follow as matter of
course Instead of building up stupendous IT.
braries and cabinets in Washington, and ex-
pending all the means Of the Institute upon
them, he insists upon the application of por-
ton Of its resources to the increase Of knowl
edge. He states, in his last report, that a
| promise has been made TO all persons in this
country engaged in original researches, and
who are capable Of adding to the sum Of human
knowledge, "that the results Of their labors
should continue 10 be presented to the world
through the Smithsonian publications"
This institution, founded by the beni6cence
Of an intelligent stranger, is one Of no narrow
or local interest, but concerns the whole world.
Literature and science will be effected by its adj
ministration wherever they are cultivated. 1t
might be convenience to q few persons about
Washington TO see IL converted into an instru-
ment for adjoining the capital, but the great mass
Of men are interested in seeing il adhere to the
noble purpose for which it was created, and we
hope tie educated men OF our country will sus.
tain lis indefahgable secretary in his wise and
liberal policy. We hope Prof Henry will not
be induced TO give up his post.