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the heart of London, just steps from famed Trafalgar Square, is
Benjamin Franklin House, the world's only remaining Franklin home.
For nearly sixteen years between 1757 and 1775, Dr Benjamin Franklin
- scientist, diplomat, philosopher, inventor, Founding Father of
the United States and more - lived behind its doors.
Benjamin Franklin House, built circa 1730, is now open to the public
as a dynamic museum and educational facility.
The Historical
Experience presents the excitement and uncertainty of Franklin's
London years using rooms where so much took place as staging for
a drama which seamlessly integrates live performance, cutting edge
lighting, sound and projection technology.
School visitors explore the Student
Science Centre featuring hands-on experimentation with Franklin's
London scientific discoveries, juxtaposing past and present knowledge.
The top floor Robert H. Smith Scholarship
Centre is a focal point in Europe for Franklin and Franklin-related
study, featuring a full set of the Papers of Benjamin Franklin,
as catalogued by Yale University, and an active symposia programme.
While lodging at 36 Craven Street, Franklin's main occupation was mediating
unrest between Britain and America, but he also served as Deputy
Postmaster for the Colonies; pursued his love of science (exploring
bifocal spectacles, the energy-saving Franklin stove); explored
health (innoculation, air baths, cures for the common cold); music
(inventing the delightful glass armonica for which Mozart, Bach
and Beethoven composed) and letters (articles, epitaphs, and his
witty Craven Street Gazette), all while forging a hearty social
life and close friendships with leading figures of the day.
To find out more about our key offerings and the fascinating story
of Benjamin Franklin House, visit the many areas of this site. And click here to use Benjamin Franklin House for an unforgettable event.
Download Benjamin Franklin House Information here:
Latest Reviews:
“Very interesting and unique approach to a small historical site like this - well done” –8 July
“Wonderful!” –8 July
“Very informative, very well done. Thank you!” –7 July
“Very informative about Benjamin Franklin's stay in London. It provided a good vantage of his trials to keep the peace. I liked the relationship with Polly.” – 7 July
“Wonderful, delightful, fantastic property and "play"” – 1 July
“Very engaging and unique” – 1 July
“A great way to bring history of ideas to life, thank you. It's like a guided fantasy 'so escapist and pleasurable.' Such an interesting man and historical period.” – 30 June
“GREAT” – 30 June
“Very informative - not too much to absorb at one time - was very clear and knowledgable” – 28 June
“An interesting insight into the life of Benjamin Franklin. Well represented” –26 June
“Very entertaining and informative. I learned a lot about Franklin. Thanks for a great experience” –26 June
“It gave me an insight to a man from our history that I had never heard before. Thanks!” –24 June
Read more reviews |
News
Benjamin Franklin House is currently showcasing art created by students from St James's School and inspired by Franklin in our Grade I building. Our topic this year is Franklin’s Creativity and we provided useful background information and ideas. Everyone got certificates and the paintings will be exhibited at the House until the end of the year. See more images. For more information on our Educational programmes click here.
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