Descriptive Entry

This accession consists of materials that document aspects of the personal life and career of Wilcomb E. Washburn (WEW) and were removed from his home after his death. The largest single group of papers deals with Washburn's membership in various organizations and societies. There is also substantial information on a projected biography of James Smithson. The papers also contain information on Washburn's scholarly writings, his travel, and other aspects of his life. Washburn was curator of political history at the National Museum of American History, later becoming chair of the Department of American Studies. Some materials are in electronic format.