The Division of Coleoptera was created at the time of the establishment of the Department of Entomology in July 1963. Around 1991, the Division ceased to be an administrative entity within the Department of Entomology. Research staff of the Division of Coleoptera included Oscar Ling Cartwright, Curator and Entomologist Emeritus, 1963-1983; Paul J. Spangler, Associate Curator and Curator, 1963-1991; and Terry L. Erwin, Assistant Curator, Associate Curator, and Curator, 1970-1991.
Smithsonian Institution Archives, Agency History. Record 217916