America's Smithsonian

Exhibit Opens
In LA Convention Center

Leadoff For Two-Year Tour

Smithsonian Secretary I. Michael Heyman opens the America's Smithsonian exhibit at the Los Angeles Convention Center February 9. Joining him on stage are (left to Right), entertainer Ray Charles, 9th District Councilperson Rita Walters, Los Angeles Mayor Richard Riordan, and President of the Los Angeles Convention and Visitors Bureau George Kirkland. (Smithsonian Photo by Jeff Tinsley)


America's Smithsonian - The traveling 150th birthday party for the Smithsonian Institution opened at the Los Angeles Convention Center February 9. To create this exhibition - the largest traveling exhibit ever produced - the different Smithsonian museums nominated and contributed some of their most highly prized objects. "America's Smithsonian" will travel from Los Angeles to Kansas City and then continue on a two-year tour to ten other cities across the United States.


(Left) Smithsonian Secretary Heyman, center, watches as a proclamation honoring the America's Smithsonian exhibit is presented by, (left to right), Convention and Visitors Bureau President Kirkland, Councilperson Walters, and Mayor Riordan. (Smithsonian Photo by Richard Strauss)

(Right) In a double-exposure, the officials on stage applaud Ray Charles while his video presentation of "America the Beautiful" plays at the opening ceremonies. (Smithsonian Photo by Eric Long)


After the formal ceremonies, Ray Charles, Mayor Riordan, Secretary Heyman, and Convention and Visitors Center President Kirkland greet members of a children's choir who performed at the ceremonies. (Smithsonian Photo by Eric Long)

Copyright 1996 Smithsonian Institution