intern Aris gives an overview of the gardens at the Smithsonian's National Museum of African American History and Culture that explore many themes and stories of African American history through the lens of plants. We invite you to explore the gardens and learn more. #SmithsonianGardens #PublicGarden | Smithsonian Gardens

State of the Smithsonian Institution

Thomas Edison made talking dolls? There’s a reason you’ve never heard of them. These were the inventor’s failed attempt at commercially selling his famous phonograph creation. Inside each porcelain doll, a wax cylinder played recorded nursery rhymes such as “Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star” and “Hickory Dickory Dock.” Less than 500 of these “little monsters” were sold before they were quickly pulled off shelves for good. 🎥 @laurenraposa 📷 NPS | Associated Press | Smithsonian Institution ✒️ Stefa