rchive - read news stories prior to 2007.

Celebrating the holidays at 36 Craven Street!

On 13 December Benjamin Franklin hosted a festive open house. Nearly 60 guests enjoyed holiday cheer in Franklin's Parlour, a slideshow of images from Craven Street in the Seminar Room, and an installation of Michael De Guzman's 'Web of 18th Century Relationships' in the kitchen.

Benjamin Franklin House Annual Symposium with the Eccles Centre for American Studies at the British Museum: Franklin - Man of Science and Letters. 1 November 2006

In this special year, the Annual Symposium looked at two of Franklin's great passions: science and letters. It was a stimulating evening featuring Lord Robert May on science and Kate Muir and Jonathan Fenby on letters.

Storytelling with Ben's mother!

On 7 October, Benjamin Franklin House was host to Ben's mother (portrayed by talented volunteer and educator, Linda Jaworski) and a number of area children. Mrs Franklin shared with our young visitors the amazing story of Franklin's life and achievements. Among the afternoon's highlights was a visit to Ben's parlour, kite making, and special treats including American-style muffins and apple juice.

Benjamin Franklin House is Featured in US Press!

Word is spreading about Benjamin Franklin House. A recent Chicago Tribune article says the House '... conjures up the spirit of Ben with an actor-interactive sound-and-light show about his years here.'

And the Boston Herald highlights Franklin's many investigations - the Glass Armonica, bifocals, and the Franklin Stove - which he explored during his tenure at 36 Craven Street!

Benjamin Franklin House was a highlight on America's National Public Radio on 4 July 2006.

Special Visitors. August 2006.

Benjamin Franklin House has welcomed special guests from Lastminute.com, the London Explorers, and even Mr Monkey from Northwest England!

Click here to see pictures from Mr Monkey's visit.

4th Annual Benjamin Franklin Science Day at the Royal Society. June 2006.

Young Franklin Scientists - Five schools participate in the 4th Annual Benjamin Franklin Science Day and Science Fair. Article by National Grid's Keith Martin.

Benjamin Franklin House science supported by

Royal Society Exhibition. June 2006.

The Royal Society's Benjamin Franklin in London exhibition is currently on display. Click here to find out more.

London Pass and Benjamin Franklin House. June 2006.

Benjamin Franklin House is the newest addition to the London Pass card - allowing bearers entry to over 50 venues for a set fee.

See our brochure page here.

Read Dr Márcia Balisciano's full article, 'Benjamin Franklin and Public History: Restoring Benjamin Franklin House' here. May 2006.

Benjamin Franklin House is a star attraction on the Hotel Channel. May 2006.

Click here to see the clip!

Benjamin Franklin House gets four stars from London's TimeOut Magazine. April 2006

Click here for full story.

Noteworthy Benjamin Franklin House. February 2006

Print and broadcast media have featured Benjamin Franklin House in this exciting month. In addition to the links below, the House starred on BBC television and radio, CBS radio, Associated Press and regional newspapers throughout the US.

CNN

Economist

24 Hour Museum

Cities of Science London

Successful First Days. February 2006

In the days since opening, over 400 members of the public have ventured to the House. In the largest extant Franklin artefact they have discovered the rescued original interiors have not a level angle among them. It is unique and engaging using the 18th century spaces where so much took place as stage, blending living interpretation, leading edge sound, lighting, and visual projection to tell the rich story of Franklin in London in his own words. Tickets can be booked online.

A Grand Celebration. January 2006

Polly Hewson, lead character in our museum-as-theatre Historical Experience, daughter of Benjamin Franklin's landlady (and Franklin's second 'daughter') wrote after his departure from Craven Street: "They all of them talk of you, and are now full of the thought of celebrating your birthday."

And so we were. On 17 January 2006, guests from across the UK, the US and beyond - over 350 of them - gathered at London's Banqueting House for a celebratory dinner and a most special 300th birthday party. Highlights included a Franklin Trumpet Voluntary arranged by well-known composer George Fenton, performed by the London Brass; delicious early American cuisine from William Norris; Franklin armonica master, Alisdair Malloy, who performed a piece written by Mozart for Franklin's amazing instrument; and Gala sponsor John Studzinski of HSBC who gave a superb introduction to Ambassador Tuttle's erudite remarks. There was even a grand tiered birthday cake.

Opening Gala Celebration. February 2006

Our Opening Gala Celebration will take place on 17 January 2006 - when Franklin turns 300 and his London home, where he lived for the better part of sixteen years on the eve of the American Revolution, opens to the public for the first time as a dynamic museum and educational facility. The Gala will take place at London’s royal palace, The Banqueting House, with senior representatives of the British and American governments. We are seeking sponsors to help underwrite the cost of this prestigious and historic event. To find out more, email info@benjaminfranklinhouse.org

Press Release. January 2006

Press Release from Benjamin Franklin House.

If you would like to be kept informed of developments at the House please email info@benjaminfranklinhouse.org with ‘Mailing List’ in the subject line.