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From the Deputy Director

In every museum, there is much more than meets the eye—and the National Museum of American History is no exception. Behind every crowd-pleasing exhibition, every public symposium, and every educational program is a complex collaborative framework of activity.

The American Presidency: A Glorious Burden demanded an unprecedented behind-the-scenes effort on a schedule that would seem inconceivable in most museums. Led by historian and Museum Director Spencer Crew, our staff met that challenge to create a remarkable exhibition that draws on the full depth and scope of our great collections.

This year, the Museum's attendance grew by 15 percent, partly in response to a diverse selection of exhibitions and the appeal of the Star-Spangled Banner Conservation Laboratory and Exhibition. Families, students, teachers, and scholars enjoyed an abundance of public programs and educational experiences. We focused our acquisition efforts on objects that reflect American Identity, collecting items as diverse as the papers of a World War II conscientious objector, a woman's patched jeans from the 1970s, and a group of tobacco farming implements.

These are just a few examples of the efforts of the wonderful collaborative network that operates throughout the entire Museum—between the Museum and its benefactors, among staff at all levels, between the board and staff, and among the various units of the larger Smithsonian Institution. We remain grateful to these dedicated individuals who are indispensable to our continued advancement and achievement of excellence.

Martha Morris