National Museum of Natural History

The National Museum of Natural History opened its doors in 1910, designed by the architectural firm Hornblower & Marshall. It was the first building constructed specifically to house the Smithsonian's growing collections of natural specimens and research labs. Its grand Neoclassical design, featuring a prominent green dome and massive granite columns, was intended to reflect the importance of the scientific endeavors occurring within its walls. Throughout the 20th century, the museum expanded its reach, becoming a global leader in paleontology, anthropology, and marine biology. It currently manages more than 145 million specimens, making it the largest natural history collection in the world. This vast repository serves as a critical resource for researchers who study everything from the evolution of early humans to the biodiversity of modern rainforests. In recent years, the museum has undergone significant transformations to engage a modern audience. The 2019 renovation of the fossil hall, now the David H. Koch Hall of Fossils—Deep Time, reimagined the story of life on Earth by emphasizing the links between the past, present, and future. Today, the museum remains a cornerstone of the National Mall, welcoming millions of visitors annually to explore the wonders of the natural world.