The Smithsonian Museum is coming.

In 1829 in Genoa a childless English chap the illegitimate son of the Duke of Northumberland James Smithson died. He left 150 sacks of gold sovereigns to the new American republic having never been there. They have invested the wealth in the advancement of knowledge in museums across their country, and have just announced that they will open a place in the east end of London in the Queen Elizabeth Park where also the V&A plan to open an off-shoot as do the University College. This is bringing coals to Newcastle. The part of London will become in the next few years a hub of creativity and the destination for many who wish to develop their careers in these industries. We are fortunate to have in our two countries museums that see their mission as spreading the good news of the Enlightenment.