How about stepping into a world fueled by exploration and discovery? That world thrives right here at the National Geographic Society. The National Geographic Society stands as one of the largest nonprofit scientific and educational organizations. It is headquartered right here in Washington D.C.
Founded in 1888, the National Geographic Society’s mission is to increase and diffuse geographic knowledge. For over a century, the society has been a beacon for explorers, scientists, and storytellers. It all started with 33 explorers and scientists. They gathered at the Cosmos Club to organize a society. Their aim was simple to share geographical knowledge. Two weeks later the National Geographic Society was officially incorporated.
Gardiner Greene Hubbard was its first president. He also co-founded AT&T. Later, Alexander Graham Bell, another co-founder of AT&T and Hubbard’s son-in-law, took over in 1897. Gilbert Hovey Grosvenor became the first full-time editor of National Geographic magazine in 1899. His family has played key roles ever since. Bell and Grosvenor made the society popular through memberships and using photos to tell stories in the magazine.
The headquarters building itself is a landmark. In 2004, it earned a Green certification from Global Green USA, showing its commitment to sustainability. The yellow portrait frame logo is recognized worldwide. It appears on the magazine and TV channels.
The society operates the National Geographic Museum. It is located at 1145 17th Street NW. Inside, you’ll find changing exhibitions that showcase the work of National Geographic explorers, photographers, and scientists. You can see artifacts like Robert Peary’s camera from the North Pole. There is also pottery recovered by Jacques Cousteau from a shipwreck.
The National Geographic Society has supported over 11,000 scientific research and exploration projects. These include everything from early hominid fossil finds by the Leakeys to Jacques Cousteau’s undersea explorations. The society gave Robert E. Peary and Richard E. Byrd support for their polar expeditions. They supported Howard Carter’s discovery of Tutankhamen’s tomb. The society even backed the first American climb of Mount Everest.
The Hubbard Medal is awarded for distinction in exploration, discovery, and research. It is named after the first president, Gardiner Greene Hubbard. Another award is the Alexander Graham Bell Medal. It is rarely given for exceptional contributions to geographic research.
The society’s media arm, National Geographic Partners, publishes National Geographic magazine. The magazine started in October 1888. It has grown to reach millions of readers. The yellow border everyone recognizes it worldwide. The magazine is known for its accurate and timely information. It contains articles about geography, science, history, culture, and current events. It also publishes other magazines, books, maps, and web and film products.
The National Geographic Society has a rich history of inspiring people to care about the planet. From its humble beginnings to its current global reach, the society continues to be a leading force in exploration and education. Take a moment to appreciate the society’s commitment to bringing the world to us.