In honor of Benjamin Franklin's 300th birthday, here are some interesting things going on around the country:
Benjamin Franklin: In Search of a Better World
December 15, 2005-April 30, 2006
This exhibit presents more than 250 original Franklin artifacts and more than 40 interactive devices, designed in the spirit of Franklin's curiosity, wit and wisdom. Highlights include five of America’s key founding documents, all signed by Franklin; a 25-foot model ship that visitors can climb aboard to recreate Ben's method of charting the Gulf Stream; and a video animation of a young Franklin swimming with a kite to save energy. (215) 409-6700, www.constitutioncenter.org
Benjamin Franklin: In Search of a Better World –
The Frankliniana database (to be online by the end of February 2006), a permanent electronic record of the surviving objects owned or used by Benjamin Franklin that includes Franklin images created during his lifetime. Also features information about Tercentenary-related events; virtual elements of the exhibition; resources for educators, including downloadable lesson plans at three grade levels, an image bank, timelines, bibliographies, fact sheets and links to other useful Franklin sites. www.benfranklin300.org
Philomel Baroque Orchestra
Franklin’s Philadelphia: A Concert Exploring Franklin’s Musical World
This event combines a varied musical program with commentary and engaging program notes. Festival concerts simulate the multi-faceted extravaganzas typical of the period, featuring “competing” soloists and program elements, varied ensembles, and a blend of art-music and popular tunes. Each program incorporates modern premieres, or seldom heard repertoire or instruments. Program notes and repertoire selections explore Franklin’s developing tastes and interests, his role as a dedicated musical amateur, and aspects of his cultural environment. Verbal commentary and readings from letters, diaries, and period accounts are interspersed throughout for a lively, engaging presentation. Franklin’s Philadelphia features the Philomel Baroque Orchestra in overtures by Arnold, Monsigny, and Stanley; Madame Brillon’s March of the Insurgents; chamber music by Abel, Erskine, and Oswald; and the Mozart glass armonica quintet. Now in its 30th season, Philomel is the Greater Philadelphia region’s premier original instruments ensemble. Philomel’s Franklin Festival also includes Franklin’s France, May 5-7, 2006. http://www.philomel.org
Walking in Benjamin Franklin's Footsteps
The two-part walking tour takes you to city landmarks that were significant in Franklin’s time as well as to innovative new attractions that bring to life the forward thinker’s insights. This self-guided walking tour takes visitors through the same streets Benjamin Franklin himself walked (Elfreth's Alley) and to the places he worked (Independence Hall), prayed (Christ Church), played (American Philosophical Society), lived (Franklin Court) and founded (Pennsylvania Hospital). For a copy of the itinerary go to www.gophila.com and locate “Walking in Benjamin Franklin’s Footsteps” under Itineraries and Tours.
Benjamin Franklin Treasure Trail
Between now and May 31, 2006
An imaginative guide to exploring the many special exhibitions celebrating Benjamin Franklin’s 300th birthday in Philadelphia. You’ll have the opportunity to visit twenty-one major institutions involved in the Treasure Trail quest. At each stop, you will get your Treasure Trail passport stamped while gaining intriguing new insights into America’s most fascinating founding father. Once you have completed at least five stops on the Benjamin Franklin Treasure Trail, return to this Web page to test your Franklin knowledge and win a Certificate of Achievement. www.benfranklin300.org/treasure_trail/
Independence National Historical Park Through Ben Franklin’s Eyes
January 17- December 31, 2006
This exhibition at the Independence Visitor Center is a quick introduction to Franklin and the places he knew in Independence National Historical Park. Visitors can find out what he did in Carpenter's Hall and see a portrait of the founding father who didn't like him. Then, they'll pick up a self-guided tour or kids activity sheet to continue the exploration. Independence Visitor Center – Changing Exhibit Room, 6th and Market Street, Philadelphia. Daily 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m; (215) 597-1586
Franklin Footsteps Walking Tour
June 1, 2005 - October 31, 2006
Come follow in Franklin’s footsteps on this Ranger led walking tour of sites associated with Ben. The outdoor walking tour starts in Franklin Court, where Franklin lived and covers 4 to 6 blocks. Find out about his secret meeting in Carpenters’ Hall, learn how he came to invent the four sided street light, or his many roles in Independence Hall- from lowly clerk to the highest state office. Franklin left his mark on many places and many institutions from fire fighting to the library in Philadelphia. Independence National Historical Park –Franklin Court near the entrance to the Underground Museum, 314 to 322 Market Street, Philadelphia. July 1 - Sept 2: daily at 2:00; Sept. & Oct and April 1 - June 30: Sat. & Sun. 2:00 to 3:00 p.m. Free. (800) 537-7676. www.nps.govinde
The Constitutional Walking Tour: Franklin Firsts and Facts
June 5, 2005 - September 4, 2006
There's a revolutionary new way to see historic Philadelphia. Follow in the Founding Fathers' footsteps with The Constitutional, a fun-filled activity for the entire family. This Constitutional Walking Tour of Philadelphia takes visitors on a walking journey through America's most historic square mile, the birthplace of our nation. The Constitutional includes many sites within the Independence National Historical Park area which is home to the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall. The Constitutional guides visitors to walk through history where The Declaration of Independence and The United States Constitution were created. Visitors can experience The Constitutional on their own as a free self-guided walking tour and/or with a lively tour guide for a fee. Self-Guided Tours: Free brochures at Ind. Visitor Center and National Constitution Center. Tours depart from the Independence Visitor Center, 6th and Market Streets, Philadelphia. Self-Guided Tours: Year Round. Guided Tours - 2006 Season: Weekends begin April 1 and daily tours begin May 27 until Sept. 4. $15.00 for Adults, $12.50 for Children ages 3-12; Group rates for parties of 25 and up. (215) 525-1776. http://www.theconstitutional.com
Ben Franklin’s Ghost: Lights of Liberty Show
January 1, 2005 - January 1, 2007
Founding Father, scientist, printer, inventor and American icon Benjamin Franklin can now answer hundreds of questions, both serious and silly, in a real-time exchange called a “synthetic interview.” Using a touch screen computer “book,” visitors can form their own questions or choose from two hundred pre-formed questions which are answered by Dr. Franklin, who appears as a dramatic, large screen image called a “Pepper’s Ghost.” This technology is a “world’s first” and was created at Carnegie Mellon University’s Entertainment Technology Center. The Ben Franklin’s Ghost exhibit is free and open daily from 9am in the PECO Energy Liberty Center, 6th and Chestnut Steets in Philadelphia. The project was funded by the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development managed through the Pittsburgh Film Office, Carnegie Mellow University’s Entertainment PECO Energy Liberty Center, 6th and Chestnut Streets, Philadelphia. Daily from 9 a.m. Free. http://www.lightsofliberty.org
B. Free Franklin Post Office
June 21, 2005 - December 31, 2006
The United States Post Office operates this special postal station in honor of our first Post Master General- Benjamin Franklin. You can buy commemorative stamps and mail postcards or letters with their unique cancellation which uses a facsimile of Franklin’s own signature. This is the only U.S. Post Office without a modern ZIP code. 316 Market Street, Philadelphia. Monday through Saturday: 9:00 to 5:00; Closed Federal Holidays. Free. (800) 537-7676. www.nps.govinde
Franklin Court Printing Office and Bindery
June 21, 2005 - December 31, 2006
Franklin made his fortune and influenced people through the power of the press. Park Rangers use a reproduction 18th century printing press to demonstrate the art and craft of printing. Find out why Franklin was so successful as a printer and writer. View the restored Subscription office of his grandson, Benjamin Franklin Bache, a leading member of the opposition press during Washington’s presidency. In 2006 you will be able to buy our printings of Franklin’s quotes; his Join or Die cartoon and other related broadsides. Handicapped accessible, restrooms nearby. Independence National Historical Park, 320 & 322 Market Street, Philadelphia. May 1 - Oct. 31: daily 10-5 ; Nov. 1 - April 30 daily 11-5; Closed 2/20/06. Free. (800) 537-7676. www.nps.govinde
Franklin Court and The Underground Museum
June 21, 2005 - December 31, 2006
Come see the actual location of the only house Ben Franklin ever owned. The house is long gone, but an award winning “Ghost House” outlines its location and the visible remains of his basement kitchen. Paving indicates where each room was and features quotes from Ben and Debbie about the use and furnishings. In the Underground Museum beneath the Ghost House, learn about Franklin, his family and his accomplishments. There are interactive exhibits, ranger talks and a 30 minute film. Restrooms, water fountain and handicapped accessible. Independence National Historical Park, 314 to 322 Market Street, Philadelphia. May 1 - Oct. 31: daily 9-5 ; Nov. 1 - April 30 daily 11-5, Closed 2/20/06. Free. (800) 537-7676. www.nps.govinde
One Book, One Philadelphia - Ben Franklin 300
January 17 to March 15, 2006, Free Library of Philadelphia
This year, as Philadelphia celebrates Benjamin Franklin's three-hundredth birthday, the City of Philadelphia and the Free Library of Philadelphia have an extraordinary opportunity to focus on the life of the legendary Mr. Franklin via our One Book, One Philadelphia project. The Library will be offering several events based on the life and times of Ben Franklin, such as author appearances, writing projects, panel discussions, book groups, children’s programs, theatrical events, and a display of original, amusing illustrations from Robert Lawson’s Ben and Me. Mr. Franklin, himself, will visit several libraries and branches throughout the One Book calendar period from January 17 to March 15, 2006. For specific information check the website at www.library.phila.gov
Franklin’s Printing Press in Action
January 19, 2006 - February 5, 2006
Exhibition and demonstration of reproduction of Franklin’s printing press owned and operated by Jack Williams, on the campus of Franklin and Marshall College. 637 College Avenue, Lancaster, Pennsylvania. (717) 291-3879. www.fandm.edux11.xml Lancaster, PA 17604-3003 · Toll-free: 877.678.9111
The Common Wealth: Benjamin Franklin and the Building of Community
January 19, 2006 - March 17, 2006
The Lancaster Historical Society’s exhibition will present Benjamin Franklin’s impact in shaping the image of Pennsylvania and America through a grassroots approach to community. Franklin’s promotion of education, voluntary organizations, agriculture, philanthropy, public health, internal improvements, technical and civic matters, for example, and their impact on the community will be highlighted in the show.
The dissemination of these ideas were facilitated by Franklin’s printing business, his newspaper, The Pennsylvania Gazette, his impact as Postmaster, the American Philosophical Society, America’s oldest learned society, the public offices he held and most importantly, his ability to network within diverse circles.
In addition to books, pamphlets, broadsides, maps, manuscripts, and artifacts, the use of an interactive digital Pennsylvania Gazette, will give visitors to the show a sense of 18th century life, and allow them to explore a broad range of topics. Lancaster County Historical Society, 230 N President Ave, Lancaster, Pennsylvania. Free. (717) 392-4633.
Franklin...He's Electric!
January 1, 2005 - January 1, 2007
The Franklin Institute celebrates Ben's far-reaching, scientific legacy in the permanent exhibit Franklin...He's Electric!, located in Franklin Gallery. It's electric. He's electric. And when you start exploring this hands-on exhibit, you'll be amazed at what Ben Franklin has meant to scientific history in America. This exhibit celebrates Franklin's curiosity—and the natural curiosity in all of us. Created for the Institute's 175th Anniversary celebration, the exhibit explores Franklin's scientific genius: from meteorology and music, to electricity, optics, and aquatics. It also offers new insight into the inventive minds of other great scientists whom Franklin inspired, such as the Wright Brothers and Thomas Edison. The Franklin Institute, 222 N. 20th Street, Philadelphia. 215) 448-1200. http://www.fi.edu
The Curiosity Show
January 1, 2005 - January 1, 2008
Daily Show at The Franklin Institute reenacts some of Ben Franklin’s famous experiments, and there are some real shockers! For show times, check The Franklin Institute’s Daily Program Guide upon arrival. The Franklin Institute, Electricity Hall, 222 North 20th Street, Philadelphia. Check Program Guide for times. (215) 448-1175. http://www.fi.edu
Sparks!
January 14, 2006 – December 31, 2006
The Franklin Institute Science Museum
Experience the amazing power of electricity in this live, interactive, high-voltage show. The electrifying spirit of Benjamin Franklin comes to life as lightning bolts dance across the stage, volunteers play with electrical fire and some of Franklin’s most dramatic experiments are recreated before your eyes. Witness the power of electricity close up as you catch sparks from the air and learn about the amazing role that Franklin’s discoveries play in our lives. This show is for school groups only. The Franklin Institute, 222 N. 20th Street, Philadelphia. Scheduled with school group visits. (215) 448-1200.
Educating the Youth of Pennsylvania: Schooling and Society in Colonial Philadelphia: An Exhibition of Books, Manuscripts and Contemporary Artifacts
January 17-May 31, 2006
This exhibition at the Rosenwald Gallery on the University of Pennsylvania campus draws on collections of the Historical Society of Pennsylvania and other area repositories to survey schooling in Franklin's day. Who received an education? Who were the teachers? What did students learn? The exhibition also addresses the originality and relevance of Franklin's 1749 educational manifesto, Proposals Relating to the Education of Youth in Pensilvania. Rosenwald Gallery, 6th floor, Van Pelt - Dietrich Library (on the Penn campus), 3420 Walnut Street, Philadelphia. Mondays – Fridays, 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Saturdays, by prior arrangement: 12:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. Free and open to the public (photo ID required at the entrance). (215) 898-7088. http://benjaminfranklin300.library.upenn.edu
Franklin's Fabulous Friends, Family and Foes
October 1, 2005 - December 31, 2006
Guided walking tours (20 minutes) every hour on the hour. Life in Philadelphia 1730-1790 as told through the life stories of people close to Benjamin Franklin. Start at the marker of Benjamin and Deborah Franklin, then walk to markers of others in the 2-acre historic Burial Ground learning about real life during this fascinating era. Includes five signers of the Declaration of Independence. Christ Church Burial Ground, 5th and Arch Streets, Philadelphia, Hourly. Adults: $2, Students: $1, Group: $10; please call to schedule. (215) 922-1695, Ext. 30. www.oldchristchurch.org
Shaping Franklin - Stenton
September 15, 2005 - December 15, 2006
Stenton was the home of James Logan, William Penn’s personal secretary. Shaping |
