Benjamin Franklin: In His Own Words (American Treasures of the Library of Congress)
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Benjamin Franklin: In His Own Words, indicates the depth and breadth of
Benjamin Franklin's public, professional, and scientific accomplishments
through important documents, letters, books, broadsides, and cartoons.
Marking the tercentenary of Franklin's birth, this exhibition, concentrates
on his achievements as a printer and writer, an inventor and scientist,
and, particularly, as a politician and statesman. The physical exhibition
will be on view at the Library through June 17, 2006.
Exhibition Overview - Transcripts - Checklist of Objects
Learn More - Public Programs - News Release - Acknowledgments
Exhibition Sections:
Introduction
A Cause For Revolution
Break With Britain
Continental Congress
Treaty of Paris
The New Republic
Scientist and Inventor
Printer and Writer
Epitaph
The Library of Congress » Exhibitions » American Treasures
January 19, 2006
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Partial Transcriptions: Benjamin Franklin: In His Own Words... (AmericanTreasures of the Lib... Page 1 of 6
The Library of Congress » Exhibitions » American Treasures
American Treasures Pages
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Home - Overview - Transcripts - Checklist of Objects - Learn More - Public Programs - Acknowledgments
Sections: Introduction - A Cause For Revolution - Break With Britain - Continental Congress
Treaty of Paris - The New Republic - Scientist and Inventor - Printer and Writer - Epitaph
Partial Transcriptions
Stamp Act Repeal in 1766 (7)
The favourable Sentiments you express of my Conduct with regard to the Repeal of the Stamp act, give me real
Pleasure; and I hope in every other matter of publick Concern, so as to behave myself as to stand fair in the
Opinions of the Wise and Good: What the rest think and say of me will then give me less Concern.
Return to Object in the Exhibition
Franklin and the King and Queen of France (9)
You see I speak of the Queen as if I had seen her, and so I have; for you must know I have been at Court. We went
to Versailles last Sunday, and had the Honour of being presented to the King, he spoke to both of us very graciously
and chearfully, is a handsome Man, has a very lively Look. And appears younger than he is.
Return to Object in the Exhibition
"You Are Now My Enemy" (10)
You are a Member of Parliament, and one of that Majority which has doomed my Country to Destruction. You have
begun to burn our Towns, and murder our People. Look upon your hands! They are stained with the Blood of your
Relations! You and I were long Friends; You are now my Enemy, and I am, Yours
Return to Object in the Exhibition
Response to the Hutchinson Affair (11)
Having been from my Youth more or less engag'd in Publick Affairs, it has often happened to me in the Course of my
Life to be censured sharply for the Part I took [i]n them.
Return to Object in the Exhibition
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"It is impossible we should think of Submission" (13)
It is impossible we should think of Submission to a Government, that has with the most wanton Barbarity and
Cruelty, burnt our defenceless Towns in the midst of Winter, excited the Savages to massacre our Farmers, and our
Slaves to murder their Masters, and is even now bringing foreign Mercenaries to deluge our Settlements with Blood.
These atrocious injuries have extinguished every remaining Spark of Affection for that Parent Country we once held
so dear.
Return to Object in the Exhibition
Benjamin Franklin Delivers a Petition (18)
Petiton of the Continental Congress Oct. 26 1774 letter of transmittal
We desire you will deliver the Petition into the hands of his Majesty and after it has been prevented, we wish it may
be made public thro' the press together with the list of Grievances.
Petition to the king
We therefore most earnestly beseech your Majesty, that your royal authority and interposition may be used for our
relief: and that a gracious answer may be given to this petition.
Return to Object in the Exhibition
The Edge of the Precipice (19)
I hope the administration will see and be convinced that it is not a little faction, but the whole body of American
freeholders from Nova Scotia to Georgia that now complain and apply for redress; And who, I am sure, will resist
rather than submit.
Return to Object in the Exhibition
Negotiating the Treaty of Paris (20)
Now therefore, We the Ministers Plenipotentiary from the United States of America, for making Peace with Great
Britain do notify to the People & Citizens of the said United States of America, that Hostilities on their Part against
his Britannic Majesty both by Sea and Land are to cease.
Return to Object in the Exhibition
"The Hypocrisy of this Country" (24)
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I made a little Extract from yours of April 27 of the Number of Slaves imported and perishing, with some close
Remarks on the Hypocrisy of this Country which encourages such a detestable Commerce by Laws, for promoting
the Guinea Trade, while it piqu'd itself on its Virtue Love of Liberty, and the Equity of its courts in setting free a
single Negro.
Return to Object in the Exhibition
Restoring Harmony (26)
It has given me great Pleasure to observe that till this Point, the Proportion of Representation, came before us, our
Debates were carry'd on with Great Coolness and Temper.
Return to Object in the Exhibition
A Copy of the Federal Constitution (28)
I take this opportunity of sending you another Copy of the propos'd new federal Constitution, and of acquainting you
that the Box containing the Encyclopedia for me and Mr. Hopkinson is just come to hand in good Order.
Return to Object in the Exhibition
"A Much More Respectable Bird" (29)
I am, on this acccount, not displeas'd that the Figure is not known as a Bald Eagle, but looks more like a Turk'y. For
in truth, the Turk'y is in comparison a much more respectable Bird, and withal a true original Native of America.
Return to Object in the Exhibition
The "growing Strength" of the United States (30)
My Malady renders my Sitting up to write rather painful to me, but I cannot let my Son-in-law Mr. Bache part for
New York, without congratulating you by him on the Recovery of your Health, so precious to us all, and on the
growing Strength of our New Government under your Administration.
Return to Object in the Exhibition
Franklin's Design for Bifocals (36)
I therefore had formerly two Pair of Spectacles, which I shifted occasionally, as in travelling I sometimes read, and
often wanted to regard the Prospects. Finding this Change troublesome, and not always sufficiently ready, I had the
Glasses cut, and half of each kind associated in the same Circle, thus,
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Return to Object in the Exhibition
On Electricity (38)
"That the Electricty by its repulsive Nature is capable of Forcing Portions of the same Fluid out of Bodies without
entring them itself, appears from this Experiment."
Return to Object in the Exhibition
Franklin Explains the Effects of Lightning (39)
The Tinfoil melted in Spots between b and c, and that whole Space not being melted, seems to indicate that the Foil
in the melted Parts had been thinner than the rest, on which their Parts the passing Fluid had therefore a greater
effect.
Return to Object in the Exhibition
Franklin Battles the Common Cold (41)
Means of preventing Colds, Temperance, Choice of Meats & Drinks, Warm Rooms, & Lodging & Clothing in Winter,
dry Air, Care to keep the Belly open, & frequent Discharge of Water, warm Bathing to cleanse the Skin. Rubbing for
Sweat, especially in the Spring.
Return to Object in the Exhibition
The Aurora Borealis (42)
A Similar Operation is perform'd by Nature on the Air of this Globe. Our Atmosphere is of a certain height, perhaps
at a Medium Miles. Above that height it is so rare as to be almost a vacuum. The Air heated between the Tropics is
continually rising, its Place is supply'd by northerly & southerly Winds which come from the cooler Regions.
Return to Object in the Exhibition
Benjamin Franklin's Personal Liturgy (47)
I Believe there is one Supreme most perfect Being, Author and Father of the Gods themselves.
For I believe that Man is not the most perfect Being but One, rather that as many Degrees of Beings his Inferiors, so
there are many Degrees of Beings superior to him.
Return to Object in the Exhibition
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A Letter to His Wife (54)
It seems but t'other Day since you and I were rank'd among the Boys and Girls, so swiftly does Time fly! We have
however great Reason to be thankful that so much of our Lives has pass'd so happily; and that so great a Share of
Health and Strength remains, as to render Life yet comfortable.
Return to Object in the Exhibition
Jefferson Eulogizes Benjamin Franklin (55)
I can only therefore testify in general that there appeared to me more respect and veneration attached to the
character of Doctor Franklin in France than to that of any other person in the same country, foreign or native.
Return to Object in the Exhibition
"Public Education for Our Youth" (56)
Having acquir'd some little Reputation among my Fellow Citizens by projecting the Public Library in 1732 and
obtaining the Subscriptions by which it was establish'd,
Return to Object in the Exhibition
Philadelphia Accepts Legacy from Franklin (57)
That they conceive this Corporation is by Law capable of taking the Legacy contained in the Will of Doct. Franklin
subject to the Trust therein expressed, and as the same is given to a charitable Use immediately & for the general
benefit of the City
Return to Object in the Exhibition
Praise for Franklin from James Madison (58)
During the session of the Grand Convention of which he was a member and as long after as he lived, I had
opportunity of enjoying much of his conversation which was always a feast to me. I never passed half an hour in his
company without hearing some observation or anecdote worth remembering.
Return to Object in the Exhibition
The Senate Rejects Efforts to Honor Franklin (59)
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Carol, rose and made Motion That the Senate should wear crape A month for the loss of Doctor Franklin. before he
was seconded Elsworth got up and opposed it. said it could not be carried in the Senate he trusted it would not be
seconded.
Return to Object in the Exhibition
Franklin's Epitaph (61)
The Body of B. Franklin, Printer; like the Cover of an old Book, Its Contents torn out, And stript of its Lettering and
Gilding, Lies here, Food for Worms. But the Work shall not be wholly lost; For it will, as he believ'd, appear once
more, In a new & more perfect Edition, Corrected and amended By the Author.
Return to Object in the Exhibition
Home - Overview - Transcripts - Checklist of Objects - Learn More - Public Programs - Acknowledgments
Sections: Introduction - A Cause For Revolution - Break With Britain - Continental Congress
Treaty of Paris - The New Republic - Scientist and Inventor - Printer and Writer - Epitaph
The Library of Congress » Exhibitions » American Treasures
January 10, 2006
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Sections: Introduction - A Cause For Revolution - Break With Britain - Continental Congress
Treaty of Paris - The New Republic - Scientist and Inventor - Printer and Writer - Epitaph
Checklist of Objects
Benjamin Franklin (1706-1790)
"Join, or Die"
Page 2
Woodcut from the Pennsylvania Gazette, Philadelphia, May 9, 1754
Enlarged versions: Page 1 - Page 2
Serial & Government Publications Division (2)
MAGNA Britannia, her Colonies REDUC'd.
[Philadelphia, ca.1766]
Photostat copy
Enlarged version
Rare Book & Special Collections Division (4)
No Stamped Paper To Be Had.
[Philadelphia: Printed by Hall & Franklin, November 7, 1765]
Enlarged version
Rare Book & Special Collections Division (5A)
An Act for granting and applying certain Stamp Duties. . .
London: Mark Baskett, Printer to the King, 1765
Printed pamphlet
Manuscript Division (6)
Benjamin Franklin to Charles Thomson, September 27, 1766
Page 2
Manuscript letter
Enlarged version: Page 1 - Page 2
Manuscript Division (7)
Benjamin Franklin to Mary Stevenson (1739-1795), September 14, 1767
Manuscript letter
Manuscript Division (9)
[Matthew Wheelock].
Reflections Moral and Political on Great Britain and Her Colonies.
London: Printed for T. Becket and Co. 1770, bound with
[Allan Ramsay].
Thoughts on the Origin and Nature of Government.
London: 1769
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Rare Book & Special Collections Division (3)
Benjamin Franklin to William Strahan (1715-1785), July 5, 1775
Manuscript letter
Enlarged version
Manuscript Division (10)
Artist unknown
The Plan, or a Scene in the French Cabinet.
[London: September 1779]
Etching
Enlarged version
Prints & Photographs Division (15)
LC-DIG-ppmsca-10081
Benjamin Franklin to Lord Richard Howe (1726-1799), July 20, 1776
Page 2
Manuscript letter
Manuscript Division (13)
"Tract Relative to the Affair of Hutchinson's Letters written by Dr. Franklin." [1774]
Manuscript document
Manuscript Division (11)
Robert Whitechurch (1814-ca. 1880), engraver
Franklin before the Lord's Council, Whitehall Chapel, London, 1774
Hand-colored engraving, 1859
Prints & Photographs Division (12)
LC-DIG-pga-03390
Declaration of the Cessation of Arms and Treaty of Paris (in French), 1783
Page 2
Manuscript copy book
Manuscript Division (20)
Anton Hohenstein (ca. 1823-?)
Franklin's Reception at the Court of France, 1778.
Philadelphia: John Smith, n.d.
Hand-colored lithograph
Prints & Photographs Division (14)
LC-DIG-pga-01591
Louis-Alexandre, duc de La Rochefoucauld d'Enville, translator
Constitutions des Treize Etats-Unis de L'Amerique.
Paris, Ph.-D. Pierres, 1783
Rare Book & Special Collections Division (20A)
Robert Sayer and John Bennett
The United States of America with the British Possessions of Canada, Nova Scotia, & of Newfoundland, divided with
the French; and the Spanish Territories of Louisiana and Florida According to the Preliminary Articles of Peace Signed
at Versailles, [Jan. 20, 1783].
London: Printed for R. Sayer and J. Bennett, 1783
Hand-colored engraved map
Geography & Map Division (21)
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[gmd370/g3700/g3700/ar075200]
Thomas Colley, engraver
A Political Concert; the vocal parts by 1. Miss America, 2. Franklin, 3. F-x, 4. Kepp-ll, 5. Mrs. Britannia, 6. Shelb-n,
7. Dun-i-g, 8. Benidick Rattle Snake.
London: W. Richardson, February 18, 1783
Engraving
Prints & Photographs Division (22)
LC-DIG-ppmsca-10082
A plan of the city and environs of Philadelphia, survey'd by N. Scull and G. Heap.
London: Will Faden, 1777
Engraved map
Geography & Map Division (16A)
[gmd382/g3824/g3824p/ct000185]
In Congress, July 19, 1776. Resolved, That it be earnestly recommended to the Convention of Pennsylvania, to
hasten, with all possible Expedition, the March of the Associators into New-Jersey,
Page 2
[Philadelphia: John Dunlap, 1776]
Rare Book & Special Collections Division (19A)
Petition of the Continental Congress to King George III, October 26, 1774
Page 1 - Page 2
Manuscript document in the hand of Timothy Matlack
Manuscript Division (18)
Charles Thomson (1729-1824) to Benjamin Franklin (1706-1790), November 1, 1774
Manuscript letter
Manuscript Division (19)
Benjamin Franklin
Plan for a Confederation, July 21, 1775
Annotated document
Manuscript Division (17)
Benjamin Franklin (1706-1790) to Thomas Jefferson (1743-1826), October 14, 1787
Manuscript letter
Manuscript Division (28)
Bill of Sale, August 1787, signed by Benjamin Franklin
Manuscript document with seal
Manuscript Division (27)
Benjamin Franklin to George Washington, September 16, 1789
Page 2
Manuscript letter
Manuscript Division (30)
Benjamin Franklin to Anthony Benezet (1713-1784), August 22, 1772
Manuscript letter
Enlarged version
Manuscript Division (24)
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An Address to the Public from the Pennsylvania Society for Promoting the Abolition of Slavery, and the Relief of Free
Negroes. . . .
Philadelphia, 1789
Rare Book & Special Collections Division (25)
Benjamin Franklin (1706-1790) to Sarah Bache (1743-1808), January 26, 1784
Manuscript letter
Enlarged version
Manuscript Division (29)
Benjamin Franklin
Draft speech, [June 11, 1787]
Manuscript document
Manuscript Division (26)
Benjamin Franklin (1706-1790)
"Suppositions and Conjectures on the Aurora Borealis," [ca. December 1778]
Page 2 - Page 3 - Page 4
Manuscript essay
Enlarged version: Page 1 -Page 2 - Page 3 - Page 4
Manuscript Division (42)
Benjamin Franklin
"Hints concerning what is called Catching a Cold," [1773]
Page 2
Manuscript document
Enlarged version: Page 1 - Page 2
Manuscript Division (41)
Benjamin Franklin.
Experiments and Observations on Electricity, made at Philadelphia in America, By Benjamin Franklin.
Page 2
London, Printed for David Henry, 1769
Rare Book & Special Collections Division (37A)
Benjamin Franklin to Jan Ingenhousz, 1777
Manuscript essay
Enlarged version
Manuscript Division (39)
Benjamin Franklin
"Queries from Dr. Ingenhousz, with my Answers, B.F."
Page 2 - Page 3
Holograph report with annotations, [1777]
Enlarged version: Page 1 - Page 2 - Page 3
Manuscript Division (38)
Benjamin Franklin
"Maritime Observations and A Chart of the Gulph Stream"
in Transactions of the American Philosophical Society. Philadelphia: 1796
Engraved map
Geography & Map Division (40A)
[gmd9/g9112/g9112g/ct000136]
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Benjamin Franklin to George Whatley (ca. 1709-1791), May 23, 1785
Letterpress manuscript
Manuscript Division (36)
Benjamin Franklin
An Account of the New Invented Pennsylvanian Fire-Places.
Page 2
Philadelphia: Printed and Sold by B. Franklin, 1744
Rare Book & Special Collections Division (35)
L'Armonica: Lettera del Signor Beniamino Franklin al Padre Giambatista Beccaria, Regio Professore di Fisica nell'
Univ. di Torino.
Page 2
[Milano?:1776?]
Rare Book & Special Collections Division (43)
Franklin and Hall [shillings]; Hall and Sellers [dollars]
Paper currency, various amounts and dates
Manuscript Division (50a-f)
50a - Front of Bill
Reverse of Bill
50b - Front of Bill
Reverse of Bill
50c - Front of Bill
Reverse of Bill
50d - Front of Bill
Reverse of Bill
50e - Front of Bill
Reverse of Bill
50f - Front of Bill
Reverse of Bill
Marcus Tullius Cicero (106-43 B.C.)
M. T. Cicero's Cato Major, or, his Discourse of Old-Age.
Translated by James Logan.
Philadelphia: Printed and Sold by B. Franklin, 1744
Rare Book & Special Collections Division (44)
The Art of Making Money Plenty in Every Man's Pocket by Doctor Franklin.
New York: P. Maverick, 1817
Enlarged version
Rare Book & Special Collections Division (51)
[Benjamin Franklin].
Poor Richard, 1739. An Almanack for the Year of Christ 1739.
Philadelphia: Printed and Sold by B. Franklin, 1738
Rare Book & Special Collections Division (53)
Richard Saunders [Benjamin Franklin].
The Way to Wealth, and a Plan by which Every Man may pay his Taxes.
Philadelphia: Printed by Daniel Humphreys, 1785
Enlarged version
Rare Book & Special Collections Division (53A)
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Benjamin Franklin (1706-1790).
A Dissertation on Liberty and Necessity, Pleasure and Pain.
London, 1725
Rare Book & Special Collections Division (52)
0046p1s.jpg">
[Benjamin Franklin].
A Proposal for Promoting Useful Knowledge among the British Plantations in America.
Page 2
Philadelphia, 1743
Rare Book & Special Collections Division (46)
Benjamin Franklin (1706-1790)
"Articles of Belief and Acts of Religion," November 20, 1728
Manuscript document
Manuscript Division (47)
The General Magazine, and Historical Chronicle, for all the British Plantations in America.
Printed and Sold by B. Franklin, January 1741
Rare Book & Special Collections Division (45)
Ephrata Community
Die bittre Gute, oder Das Gesäng der einsamen Turtel-Taube . . .
Page 2
Manuscript hymnal, 1746
Music Division (49)
[Conrad Beissel].
Vorspiel der Neuen-Welt.
Page 2
Philadelphia, Benjamin Franklin, 1732
Rare Book & Special Collections Division (48)
[Benjamin Franklin]
The Private Life of the Late Benjamin Franklin, LL.D. Late Minister Plenipotentiary from the United States of America
to France, &c.
London, Printed for J. Parsons, 1793
Rare Book & Special Collections Division (60)
Benjamin Franklin
"Observations Relative to the Intentions of the Original Founders of the Academy in Philadelphia," June, 1789
Page 2
Manuscript essay
Manuscript Division (56)
Benjamin Franklin (1706-1790)
Epitaph, 1738
Manuscript verse
Manuscript Division (61)
Benjamin Franklin to Deborah Franklin (1705?-1774), January 6, 1773
Page 2
Manuscript letter
Enlarged version: Page 1 - Page 2
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Manuscript Division (54)
Thomas Jefferson (1743-1826) to William Smith (1727-1803), February 19, 1791
Page 2
Manuscript letter
Enlarged version: Page 1 - Page 2
Manuscript Division (55)
James Madison's (1751-1836) notes on Benjamin Franklin
Manuscript document, post 1817
Enlarged version
Manuscript Division (58)
William Maclay's diary April 23, 1790
Manuscript diary
Enlarged version
Manuscript Division (59)
Report of the Committee "to whom was referrd the consideration of the Legacy left by Doct. B. Franklin to the
Corporation," June 18, 1790
Manuscript document
Manuscript Division (57)
Juste Chevillet (1729-1802) [after a painting by Joseph Duplessis (1725-1802)]
Benjamin Franklin. Né à Boston, dans la Nouvelle Angleterre, le 17 Janv. 1706
Engraving, 1778
Prints & Photographs Division (1)
LC-DIG-ppmsca-10080
Edward Fisher (1730-ca. 1785), after Mason Chamberlin (d. 1787)
Benjamin Franklin of Philadelphia, 1763
Mezzotint
Prints & Photographs Division (32)
LC-DIG-ppmsca-10083
Home - Overview - Transcripts - Checklist of Objects - Learn More - Public Programs - Acknowledgments
Sections: Introduction - A Cause For Revolution - Break With Britain - Continental Congress
Treaty of Paris - The New Republic - Scientist and Inventor - Printer and Writer - Epitaph
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Sections: Introduction - A Cause For Revolution - Break With Britain - Continental Congress
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Learn More
Benjamin Franklin Selected Chronology
1706 Born in Boston on January 17
1718 Apprenticed as a printer to brother James
1723 Leaves Boston for Philadelphia
1729 Acquires Philadelphia newspaper, Pennsylvania Gazette; son William born
1730 Marries Deborah Read
1731 Founds Library Company of Philadelphia, first subscription library
1732 Publishes first issue of Poor Richard's Almanack; son Francis is born
1736 Organizes Philadelphia's first volunteer fire company; Francis dies
1743 Daughter Sarah is born
1744 Markets Franklin fireplace or "stove"
1750 Helps establish the Academy of Philadelphia, later the University of Pennsylvania
1751 Elected to Pennsylvania Assembly
1752 Pennsylvania Hospital opens with Franklin's support
1753 Appointed deputy British postmaster of North America
1757 Goes to London as agent of the Pennsylvania Assembly
1762 Returns to Philadelphia; son William is appointed Royal Governor of New Jersey
1764 Goes to London with petition for Royal Government for Pennsylvania
1766 Supports repeal of Stamp Act before the British House of Commons
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1774 Denounced by British government and dismissed as postmaster; Deborah Franklin dies
1775
Returns to Philadelphia; elected delegate to Second Continental Congress; drafts Articles of Confederation
for the United States
1776 Helps write Declaration of Independence; sails to France as United States minister
1778 Signs treaties of alliance and friendship with France
1782 Helps negotiate Treaty of Paris with Great Britain to end American Revolution
1784 Invents bifocals
1785 Returns to Philadelphia; chosen president of Pennsylvania
1787 Serves as delegate to Federal Constitutional Convention
1790 Petitions Congress for end to slavery; dies on April 17
Read More About It
Brands, H.W. The First American: the Life and Times of Benjamin Franklin. New York: Doubleday, 2000.
Dray, Philip. Stealing God's Thunder. Benjamin Franklin's Lightning Rod and the Invention of America. New York:
Random House, 2005.
Franklin, Benjamin. The Autobiography of Benjamin Franklin. Second Edition. Foreword by Edmund S. Morgan. New
Haven: Yale Nota Bene/Yale University Press, 2003.
Humes, James C. The Wit & Wisdom of Benjamin Franklin. A Treasury of More Than 900 Quotations and Entertaining
Anecdotes. New York: Harper Collins, 1995.
Isaacson, Walter. Benjamin Franklin: An American Life. New York: Simon & Schuster, 2003.
Lemay, J.A. Leo, ed. Franklin: Writings. New York: Library of America, 1987.
Middlekauff, Robert. Benjamin Franklin and His Enemies. Berkeley: University of California Press, 1996.
Morgan, Edmund. Benjamin Franklin. New Haven: Yale University Press, 2002.
Shiff, Stacy. A Great Improvisation: Franklin, France, and the Birth of America. New York: Henry Holt, 2005.
Talbott, Page, ed. Benjamin Franklin: In Search of a Better World. New Haven: Yale University Press, 2005.
Waldstreicher, David. Runaway America: Benjamin Franklin, Slavery and the American Revolution. New York: Hill
and Wang, 2004.
For younger readers:
Fradin, Dennis Brindell and John O'Brien (illustrator). Who Was Benjamin Franklin? New York: Penguin Young
Readers Group, 2002
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Fritz, Jean and Margot Tomes (illustrator). What's The Big Idea, Ben Franklin? New York: Penguin Young Readers
Group, 1996.
Giblin, James Cross and Michael Dooling (illustrator). The Amazing Life of Benjamin Franklin. Scholastic, Inc., 2006.
Lawson Robert. Ben and Me: A New and Astonishing Life of Benjamin Franklin As Written by His Good Mouse Amos.
Boston: Little, Brown & Company, 1939 [Reprinted, 1988].
Satterfield Kathryn Hoffman. Benjamin Franklin (Time for Kids Series). New York: Harpers Collins Children's Books,
2005.
Schanzer, Rosalyn. How Ben Franklin Stole Lightning. New York: Harper Collins Publisher, 2003.
Stevenson, Augusta and Ray Quigley (illustrator). Benjamin Franklin: Young Printer (Childhood of Famous Americans
Series). Indianapolis: Bobbs-Merrill, 1983.
On the Web:
Benjamin Franklin: A Documentary History, by J.A. Leo Lemay. University of Delaware: 1997.
www.english.udel.edu/lemay/franklin/
The Benjamin Franklin Tercentenary. Administered by the Benjamin Franklin Tercentenary Commission. The site
includes "Ben Across the Curriculum," a set of interdisciplinary lesson plans, keyed to appropriate national
standards, that expand upon and interpret the five central themes highlighted in the official tercentenary exhibition,
Benjamin Franklin: In Search of a Better World. Philadelphia: 2005. www.franklin300.org
Franklin Institute, Philadelphia -- dedicated to science and technology education. Franklin Institute is also the
national memorial to Benjamin Franklin. www.fi.edu
Benjamin Franklin. A PBS companion website to a program produced by Twin Cities Public Television in cooperation
with Middlemarch Films, 2002. www.pbs.org/benfranklin
Teacher Institutes on Benjamin Franklin
Description and registration form
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Public Programs
Lecture Series
Thursday, March 9, 2006 at Noon
"Benjamin Franklin"
J. A. Leo Lemay, University of Delaware
Noon, March 9, 2006
Location: Thomas Jefferson Building, Room LJ119 (view floor plan)
>> more about J. A. Leo Lemay:
http://www.english.udel.edu/Profiles/lemay.htm
Thursday, April 20, 2006 at Noon
"Benjamin Franklin and Others in Search of a Better World"
Emma Lapsansky-Werner, Haverford College
Location: James Madison Building, Mary Pickford Theater (view floor plan)
>> more about Emma Lapsansky-Werner:
http://www.haverford.edu/library/special/webejl/vita896.html
http://www.haverford.edu/publications/winter03/laps.htm
Thursday, May 4, 2006 at Noon
"Did Benjamin Franklin Have a Dark Side?"
Robert L. Middlekauff, Berkeley
Location: Thomas Jefferson Building, Room LJ119 (view floor plan)
>> more about Robert Middlekauff:
http://history.berkeley.edu/faculty/Middlekauff
http://teaching.berkeley.edu/dta96/#middlekauff
Gallery Talks
All programs will take place in the American Treasures Gallery at 12:00 P.M. (view map)
January 18, 2006
Gerard Gawalt of the Manuscript Division will lead Part I of a tour through the exhibition Benjamin Franklin: In His
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Own Words
February 22, 2006
Rosemary Fry Plakas of the Rare Book and Special Collections Division will discuss Benjamin Franklin as a writer and
printer
March 1, 2006
Gerard Gawalt of the Manuscript Division will discuss Benjamin Franklin as a statesman and diplomat
March 29, 2006
Len Bruno of the Manuscript Division will discuss Benjamin Franklin as scientist and inventor
May 3, 2006
Gerry Gawalt of the Manuscript Division will lead Part II of tour through the exhibition Benjamin Franklin: In His Own
Words
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Sections: Introduction - A Cause For Revolution - Break With Britain - Continental Congress
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The Library of Congress » Exhibitions » American Treasures
February 8, 2006
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Library Exhibit Celebrates Tercentenary of Benjamin Franklin's Birth
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November 9, 2005
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Web site: http://www.loc.gov/exhibits/treasures/franklin-home.html
Library Exhibit Celebrates Tercentenary of Benjamin Franklin's Birth
Display to Open Dec. 12 in “American Treasures” Exhibition
The Library of Congress, which houses the second largest collection of Benjamin Franklin papers in
the world, will celebrate the tercentenary of the statesman’s birth with an exhibition titled “Benjamin
Franklin: In His Own Words.” This display will occupy the central portion of the larger “American
Treasures” exhibition and will be on view from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday-Saturday in the Southwest
Gallery of the Thomas Jefferson Building, 10 First Street S.E., Washington, D.C., from Dec. 12, 2005,
through June 17, 2006.
The display features 75 items drawn from the more than 8,000 documents in the Benjamin Franklin
Collection in the Library’s Manuscript Division and other Franklin manuscripts in the Thomas Jefferson
and George Washington papers. Also included in the display are books from Franklin’s personal
library, maps and other visual materials provided by the Library’s Rare Book and Special Collections,
Geography and Map, and Prints and Photographs divisions.
Benjamin Franklin’s reputation as a writer, raconteur, wit, businessman and amateur scientist,
propelled him into the front ranks of Philadelphia society and later made him a popular figure abroad.
During his long life, Franklin achieved fame as a printer, author, scientist, philanthropist, inventor,
politician and diplomat.
The exhibition contains manuscripts, prints and other artifacts attesting to Franklin’s eclectic talents
and interests. These include his designs for bifocal glasses; his writings on electricity, fire prevention
and cures for the common cold; cartoons and engravings espousing his political views; a religious
treatise; and the first English-language imprint of his autobiography (London, 1793).
Benjamin Franklin was born on Jan. 17, 1706, in Boston. The 10th son of a candle maker, Franklin
was educated at Boston Grammar School and subsequently apprenticed with his half-brother, Peter, a
controversial printer. In 1723 Franklin found employment as a journeyman printer in Philadelphia. By
1730 he controlled his own printing shop, which published The Pennsylvania Gazette. His newspaper
and “Poor Richard’s Almanack” (1732-57) made him known throughout the American provinces and
England, where he served as an agent of Pennsylvania in London from 1757 to 1775.
After the outbreak of the American Revolution in 1775, Franklin served in the Continental Congress,
where he helped draft the Declaration of Independence. He was appointed one of America’s ministers
to France, where he became a popular figure in French society. He served until 1785, helping to
obtain French military aid and negotiate the Treaty of Paris in 1783. This historic document, a copy of
which appears in the exhibition, ended the Revolutionary War. Franklin returned to the United States
in 1785 and was elected president of the executive council of Pennsylvania. He served as a delegate
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Library Exhibit Celebrates Tercentenary of Benjamin Franklin's Birth
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to the Federal Constitutional Convention in 1787 and signed the Constitution. Franklin died on April
17, 1790, just one month before Rhode Island became the last state to ratify the Constitution.
###
PR 05-244
11/10/05
ISSN 0731-3527
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Sections: Introduction - A Cause For Revolution - Break With Britain - Continental Congress
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Acknowledgments
Staff for the Exhibition
Interpretive Programs Office:
Irene Chambers, Interpretive Programs Chief
Cheryl Regan, Exhibition Director
Debbie Durbeck, Production Officer
Christopher O'Connor, Lead Exhibition Production Specialist
Betsy Nahum-Miller, Online Exhibition Coordinator
Patrick Shepler, Registrar
Susan Mordan-White, Education Specialist
Denise Agee, Kimberli Curry, David Hayward, Carroll Johnson, Tambra Johnson, Antonio La Greca
Library of Congress Curator:
Gerard Gawalt, Manuscript Division
Library of Congress Staff Contributors:
Rosemary Fry Plakas, Rare Book and Special Collections Division
Rikki Condon and Leonard Bruno, Manuscript Division; Kaare Chaffe, Yasmeen Khan, Hans Wang, Dan Paterson, and
Claire Dekle, Conservation Division; Domenic Sergi, Chris Pohlhaus, Jade Curtis, Ronnie Hawkins, Information
Technology Services; Julie Mangin, Elizabeth Miller, Network Development and MARC Standards Office; Sara Duke,
Prints and Photographs Division; Audrey Fischer, Public Affairs Office; Stanley Bandong, Graphics Unit; Clark Evans
and Mark Dimunation, Rare Book and Special Collections Division
Exhibition and brochure design:
Louis Emmanuel Gauci, Architecture & Design
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Sections: Introduction - A Cause For Revolution - Break With Britain - Continental Congress
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Benjamin Franklin: In His Own Words (American Treasures of the Library of Congress)
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Benjamin Franklin: In His Own Words, indicates the depth and breadth of
Benjamin Franklin's public, professional, and scientific accomplishments
through important documents, letters, books, broadsides, and cartoons.
Marking the tercentenary of Franklin's birth, this exhibition, concentrates
on his achievements as a printer and writer, an inventor and scientist,
and, particularly, as a politician and statesman. The physical exhibition
will be on view at the Library through June 17, 2006.
Exhibition Overview - Transcripts - Checklist of Objects
Learn More - Public Programs - News Release - Acknowledgments
Exhibition Sections:
Introduction
A Cause For Revolution
Break With Britain
Continental Congress
Treaty of Paris
The New Republic
Scientist and Inventor
Printer and Writer
Epitaph
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Sections: Introduction - A Cause For Revolution - Break With Britain - Continental Congress
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Introduction
Born in Boston on January 17, 1706, young Franklin struck out on his own in 1723, eventually finding employment
as a journeyman printer in Philadelphia. Franklin's newspaper The Pennsylvania Gazette, his Poor Richard's
Almanack, and work as an inventor and scientist propelled him to the front ranks of Philadelphia society and made
him a well-known figure throughout the American provinces and England.
In 1757, at age fifty-one Franklin, began his career as a diplomat and statesman in London where he essentially
remained until the outbreak of the American Revolution. When Franklin returned to Philadelphia in 1775, he served
as a delegate to the Continental Congress, where he was instrumental in drafting the Declaration of Independence
and the Articles of Confederation. Because of his international experience, Franklin was chosen as one the first
ministers to France. In Paris Franklin reached his peak of fame, becoming the focal point for a cultural Franklinmania among the French intellectual elite. Franklin ultimately helped negotiate a cessation of hostilities and a peace
treaty that officially ended the Revolutionary War.
Even after his death in 1790, Franklin remained an American celebrity. Shortly after his death, his now famous
autobiography was published in France and was followed two years later by British and American editions. Perhaps,
the last, best summary should be the simple words of James Madison taken from his notes on Franklin: "I never
passed half an hour in his company without hearing some observations or anecdote worth remembering.”
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January 10, 2006
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Sections: Introduction - A Cause For Revolution - Break With Britain - Continental Congress
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A CAUSE for REVOLUTION
Benjamin Franklin was born in Boston, Massachusetts, the tenth son of Josiah, a candle purveyor, and Abiah Folger.
Educated at Boston Grammar School, Benjamin apprenticed with his father, and then his half-brother, Peter, a
controversial printer in Boston. Young Franklin struck out on his own in 1723 eventually finding employment as a
journeyman printer in Philadelphia. By 1730, he controlled his own printing shop and published The Pennsylvania
Gazette newspaper, had fathered a son, William, and married Deborah Read Rogers.
"Join, or Die"
Benjamin Franklin (1706-1790)
"Join, or Die"
Page 2
Woodcut from the Pennsylvania Gazette, Philadelphia, May
9, 1754
Enlarged versions: Page 1 - Page 2
Benjamin Franklin published this woodcut in the
Pennsylvania Gazette, which represents America
as a snake severed into various provinces. Prior to
the outbreak of the French and Indian War,
Franklin hoped to persuade the American colonies
to unite their governments to protect themselves
from the French and their Native American allies
under a plan later known as "The Albany Plan,"
which was ultimately rejected. The image, the first
to address unification of the colonies, would later
be used as a symbol of the American Revolution
with the motto: "Don't Tread On Me."
Serial & Government Publications Division (2)
Magna Britannia
This vivid allegorical cartoon, which illustrates the
fatal effects on the empire that would result from
taxing the colonies, was designed by Franklin in 1766.
Franklin printed the image on cards that he
distributed to Parliament during the debate over the
repeal of the Stamp Act. This broadside carries a text
that reads: "The Moral is, that the Colonies may be
http://www.loc.gov/exhibits/treasures/franklin-cause.html
MAGNA Britannia, her Colonies REDUC'd.
[Philadelphia, ca.1766]
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A Cause for Revolution: Benjamin Franklin: In His Own Words... (American Treasures of the ...
ruined, but that Britain would thereby be maimed."
Both the card and the broadside version, with the
explanation and moral, are extremely rare.
Page 2 of 3
Photostat copy
Enlarged version
Rare Book & Special Collections Division (4)
Subverting the Stamp Act
No Stamped Paper To Be Had.
[Philadelphia: Printed by Hall & Franklin, November 7, 1765]
On October 31, 1765, the publishers announced the
suspension of the Pennsylvania Gazette in protest of
the provisions of the Stamp Act, which required that
newspapers be printed on imported, stamped paper
that required payment of a duty. Between
November 7 and December 26, Franklin's partner
David Hall issued news sheets on unstamped paper
without a masthead, thus avoiding legal
repercussions while satisfying the subscribers.
Enlarged version
Rare Book & Special Collections Division (5A)
Franklin Supports the
1765 Stamp Act
Benjamin Franklin, Pennsylvania agent and deputy
postmaster general in North America, initially
supported the Stamp Act of 1765, by which
Parliament levied a new tax on British colonies.
Although the tax would not raise much money, the
British chancellor of the Exchequer Sir George
Grenville wanted a declaration of Parliament's
sovereign right to tax the colonists. Franklin became
an opponent when he learned of the fervent colonial
opposition.
An Act for granting and applying certain Stamp Duties. . .
London: Mark Baskett, Printer to the King, 1765
Printed pamphlet
Manuscript Division (6)
Stamp Act Repeal in 1766
Benjamin Franklin to Charles Thomson, September 27, 1766
In this letter sent from London, Franklin thanks his
old friend and Philadelphia neighbor for endorsing
his conduct in regard to the repeal of the Stamp
Act. Although Franklin, as Pennsylvania's agent in
London, had briefly supported the new tax on
America, he quickly switched to opposition after
hearing of the angry response in Pennsylvania.
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Page 2
Manuscript letter
Enlarged version: Page 1 - Page 2
Page 3 of 3
Franklin attributed America's success in obtaining
the repeal "to what the Profane would call Luck &
the Pious Providence."
Manuscript Division (7)
Partial Transcription
Franklin and the King
and Queen of France
Benjamin Franklin was visiting France in 1767 when
he wrote this letter to Mary (Polly) Stevenson, the
intellectually curious daughter of his British landlady,
Margaret Stevenson (ca. 1706-1783), describing in
words and a drawing his experience at a public
supper with the French King Louis XV and Queen
Marie, who spoke to Franklin "Very graciously and
cheerfully."
Benjamin Franklin to Mary Stevenson (1739-1795),
September 14, 1767
Manuscript letter
Manuscript Division (9)
Partial Transcription
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Break with Britain
Franklin began his career as a diplomat and statesman when he went to London in 1757 as an agent of the
Pennsylvania assembly and became an absentee deputy British postmaster for North America. There he remained,
except for a brief return to Philadelphia, until the outbreak of the American Revolution in 1775, serving as an
American provincial agent and pursuing his interests as an inventor, scientist, and author. In London, Franklin
gradually ceased his support for British rule and became an American revolutionary.
"You Are Now My Enemy"
Willliam Strahan, an English printer and publisher,
who was Franklin's friend and correspondent for
many years, voted with the majority of Parliament to
proclaim the Americans as rebels. Franklin drafted
but never sent this well-publicized letter to Strahan
to sever their friendship.
Benjamin Franklin to William Strahan
(1715-1785), July 5, 1775
Manuscript letter
Enlarged version
Manuscript Division (10)
Partial Transcription
Response to the Hutchinson Affair
Benjamin Franklin wrote this tract after Alexander
Wedderburn, British Solicitor-General, sharply
attacked Franklin. Wedderburn asserted that Franklin
was a "true incendiary" before the Privy Council on
January 29, 1774, and accused him of being the
"prime conductor" in the agitation against the British
government largely for illegally obtaining copies of
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Break with Britain: Benjamin Franklin: In His Own Words... (AmericanTreasures of the Library... Page 2 of 3
Massachusetts Governor Thomas Hutchinson's letters
filled with advice on how to subdue America by
restricting its liberties. The tract was not published
until after Franklin's death.
"Tract Relative to the Affair of Hutchinson's Letters written
by Dr. Franklin." [1774]
Manuscript document
Manuscript Division (11)
Partial Transcription
Franklin Before the Lords in
Council
This engraving captures the abusive hour-long attack
waged by the British Solicitor-General Alexander
Wedderburn against Franklin before the Privy Council
in January 1744. Franklin remained silent throughout
the attack. He would later write of the incident:
"Spots of Dirt thrown upon my Character, I suffered
while fresh remain; I . . . rely'd on the vulgar Adage,
that they would all rub off when they were dry."
Robert Whitechurch (1814-ca. 1880), engraver
Franklin before the Lord's Council,
Whitehall Chapel, London, 1774
Hand-colored engraving, 1859
Prints & Photographs Division (12)
LC-DIG-pga-03390
"It is impossible we should think of
Submission"
Benjamin Franklin to Lord Richard Howe (1726-1799), July
20, 1776
Page 2
Just days after the adoption of the Declaration of
Independence by Congress, Benjamin Franklin wrote
this stinging rebuke to the commander of British
naval forces in North America and peace
commissioner, Lord Richard Howe, who had offered
pardons to American political leaders. The offer was
rejected. Franklin replied that "It is impossible we
should think of Submission to a Government" that
has inflicted "atrocious Injuries" on Americans.
Manuscript letter
Manuscript Division (13)
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Partial Transcription
The Assumed Plan
This 1779 British political cartoon shows a laughing
Franklin, at center, holding a copy of his "Plan" that
calls for draining of the "British Ocean" to facilitate
an invasion by French troops. In his other hand are
strings connected to the noses of the French King
and members of the French Court.
Artist unknown
The Plan, or a Scene in the French Cabinet.
[London: September 1779]
Etching
Enlarged version
Prints & Photographs Division (15)
LC-DIG-ppmsca-10081
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Continental Congress
Franklin returned to Philadelphia in 1775. There he served as a delegate to the Continental Congress, where he was
instrumental in drafting the Declaration of Independence and the Articles of Confederation to form a new union.
Because of his international experience, Franklin was chosen by the Continental Congress as one of its first ministers
to France. In Paris Franklin reached his peak of fame, becoming the focal point for a cultural Franklin-mania among
the French intellectual elite. Franklin ultimately helped negotiate a cessation of hostilities and a peace treaty that
officially ended the Revolutionary War.
City of Philadelphia
Philadelphia, site of both
Continental Congresses, was
one of the most urban,
advanced cities in America in
the eighteenth century. Drawn
by George Heap, a surveyor and
city coroner of Philadelphia, and
Nicolas Scull, Surveyor General
of the Province of Pennsylvania
and a friend to Franklin, this
map shows streams, roads, and
names of the landowners in the
vicinity of Philadelphia. The
bottom of the map contains an
illustration of the State-House or
Independence Hall, home of the
Federal Convention of 1787.
A plan of the city and environs of Philadelphia, survey'd
by N. Scull and G. Heap.
London: Will Faden, 1777
Engraved map
Geography & Map Division (16A)
[gmd382/g3824/g3824p/ct000185]
Plan of Confederation, 1775
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Benjamin Franklin returned from London in May, 1775, and was quickly
drafted as one of the Pennsylvania delegates to the second Continental
Congress. Franklin's plan for a government for a united colonial
confederation was read in Congress on July 21, 1775, but was not acted
upon at that time. Thomas Jefferson, a fellow delegate, annotated this
copy of Franklin's plan.
Benjamin Franklin
Plan for a Confederation, July 21,
1775
Annotated document
Manuscript Division (17)
Benjamin Franklin
Delivers a Petition
Benjamin Franklin delivered this
Petition of the Continental
Congress, dated October 26,
1774 and signed by fifty-one
delegates to the Congress, to
Britain's King George III. The
petition, one of two copies sent
to Franklin, stated the
grievances of the American
provinces and asked for the
King's help in seeking solutions.
Petition of the Continental Congress to King George III,
October 26, 1774
Page 1 - Page 2
Manuscript document in the hand of Timothy Matlack
Manuscript Division (18)
Partial Transcription
The Edge of the Precipice
Charles Thomson, secretary of the First Continental Congress, sent the
petition of Congress to the British King, George III, with this cover letter
to Benjamin Franklin, one of America's agents in London. Thomson wrote
that although there was still hope for peace, the colonies were on the
"very edge of the precipice." The petition, which outlined a peaceful
redress of grievances, was summarily rejected by the British government.
Charles Thomson (1729-1824) to
Benjamin Franklin (1706-1790),
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Continental Congress: Benjamin Franklin: In His Own Words... (AmericanTreasures of the Lib... Page 3 of 3
November 1, 1774
Manuscript letter
Manuscript Division (19)
Partial Transcription
To the Continental
Congress
In anticipation of an imminent
attack by enemy forces
gathering on Staten Island,
Congress had ordered the
formation of a flying camp of
militiamen from Delaware,
Maryland, and Pennsylvania to
defend New Jersey. Franklin was
appointed to a Congressional
committee charged with
conferring with political and
military authorities on the best
means of defense. This
broadside signed by Franklin as
president of the Pennsylvania
Convention, urges the provincial
militia to march with expedition,
disregarding any reports to the
contrary.
In Congress, July 19, 1776. Resolved, That it be
earnestly recommended to the Convention of
Pennsylvania, to hasten, with all possible Expedition, the
March of the Associators into New-Jersey,
Page 2
[Philadelphia: John Dunlap, 1776]
Rare Book & Special Collections Division (19A)
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Treaty of Paris
At the French Court
In this idealized version of
Franklin's appearance at the
Court in Versailles on March
20, 1778, King Louis XVI
avowed the treaty of alliance
between France and the
United States by formally
receiving the American
commissioners. Franklin
played the part of the rustic
sage, as he shrewdly
calculated the sophisticated
courtiers would want to see
him--wigless, bespectacled,
and donning his "Quaker"
suit of sober brown. He
appeared again at the French
court one year later as the
U.S. Minister to France.
Anton Hohenstein (ca. 1823-?)
Franklin's Reception at the Court of France, 1778.
Philadelphia: John Smith, n.d.
Hand-colored lithograph
Prints & Photographs Division (14)
LC-DIG-pga-01591
Negotiating the Treaty of Paris
Benjamin Franklin was one of the American Commissioners in France who
negotiated the Treaty of Paris with Great Britain ending the American
Revolutionary War and securing the United States ownership of a vast
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territory between the Atlantic coast and the Mississippi River. The
Declaration of the Cessation of Arms followed the Preliminary Treaty of
Peace, which appears in Franklin's copy book in French.
Declaration of the Cessation of
Arms and Treaty of Paris (in
French), 1783
Page 2
Manuscript copy book
Manuscript Division (20)
Partial Transcription
Constitutions of the Thirteen States of America
Several weeks before the Treaty of Paris, Franklin arranged for the translation and publication of the thirteen
state constitutions along with other founding documents and treaties of commerce and alliance. Believing the
publication would be influential in supporting recognition of the new country by European powers, he had
sumptuously bound copies presented to the French king and queen and all the French foreign ministers. The
Great Seal of the United States, approved by Congress in June 1782, made its first printed appearance here.
This copy is personally inscribed by Franklin to the translator.
Robert Sayer and John Bennett
Louis-Alexandre, duc de La
The United States of America with the British Possessions of Canada, Nova Scotia, &
Rochefoucauld d'Enville,
of Newfoundland, divided with the French; and the Spanish Territories of Louisiana
translator
and Florida According to the Preliminary Articles of Peace Signed at Versailles, [Jan.
Constitutions des Treize Etats-
20, 1783].
Unis de L'Amerique.
London: Printed for R. Sayer and J. Bennett, 1783
Paris, Ph.-D. Pierres, 1783
Hand-colored engraved map
Rare Book & Special Collections
Geography & Map Division (21)
Division (20A)
[gmd370/g3700/g3700/ar075200]
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Treaty of Paris - The New Republic - Scientist and Inventor - Printer and Writer - Epitaph
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Sections: Introduction - A Cause For Revolution - Break With Britain - Continental Congress
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The New Republic
"The Hypocrisy of this Country"
Benjamin Franklin, despite having brought two Black slaves to England in 1757, became an eager supporter
and correspondent of Anthony Benezet, the Philadelphia abolitionist and educator, who had written important
anti-slavery pamphlets, books, and newspaper articles. As president of the Pennsylvania anti-slavery society,
Franklin appealed for public support of a humanitarian plan to not only emancipate slaves, but to educate
free blacks and their children and to facilitate their progress toward good citizenship.
Benjamin Franklin to Anthony Benezet
(1713-1784), August 22, 1772
Manuscript letter
Enlarged version
Manuscript Division (24)
An Address to the Public from the Pennsylvania Society for Promoting the
Abolition of Slavery, and the Relief of Free Negroes. . . .
Philadelphia, 1789
Rare Book & Special Collections Division (25)
Partial Transcription
Restoring Harmony
When delegates became heated over
the issue of proportional
representation at the Federal
Constitutional Convention in 1787 at
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Philadelphia, Benjamin Franklin urged
"great Coolness and Temper," telling
the delegates "we are sent here to
consult, not to contend, with each
other." As the eldest delegate at the
Convention, Franklin acted on several
occasions to restore harmony.
Benjamin Franklin
Draft speech, [June 11, 1787]
Manuscript document
Manuscript Division (26)
Partial Transcription
President of Pennsylvania
Benjamin Franklin was chosen president of Pennsylvania shortly
after his 1785 return from France. The bulk of Franklin's
presidential duties included signing land grants, such as this 1787
bill of sale, and performing ceremonial functions.
Bill of Sale, August 1787, signed by
Benjamin Franklin
Manuscript document with seal
Manuscript Division (27)
A Copy of the Federal
Constitution
Benjamin Franklin enclosed a copy of
the new federal constitution with this
letter to Thomas Jefferson, the
American minister to France, and
thanked him for the receipt of a box of
books.
Benjamin Franklin (1706-1790) to Thomas Jefferson
(1743-1826), October 14, 1787
Manuscript letter
Manuscript Division (28)
Partial Transcription
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"A Much More Respectable Bird"
Benjamin Franklin (1706-1790) to Sarah
Bache (1743-1808), January 26, 1784
Benjamin Franklin criticized the new American hereditary military
order of the Society of Cincinnati in this long letter to his daughter,
Sarah Franklin Bache. He was particularly critical of the Society's
symbol, featuring "a Bald Eagle, but looks more like a Turk' y. For
in Truth, the Turk'y is in comparison a much more respectable
Bird."
Manuscript letter
Enlarged version
Manuscript Division (29)
Partial Transcription
The "growing Strength" of
the United States
In his eighty-fourth year, seven
months before his death, an ailing
Franklin writes to the nation's first
president George Washington: "For my
own personal case, I should have died
two years ago; but tho' those years
have been spent in excruciating pain, I
am pleased that I have lived them
since they brought me to see our
present situation."
Benjamin Franklin to George Washington, September 16,
1789
Page 2
Manuscript letter
Manuscript Division (30)
Partial Transcription
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Scientist and Inventor
Benjamin Franklin
This portrait, which depicts Franklin as
a learned scientist and inventor, was
one of his favorites. Pictured on the
left is the signal-bell apparatus
Franklin devised to detect the
presence of electrically-charged
clouds. The bolt of lightning , seen
through the open window, became an
attribute closely identified with
Franklin. At Franklin's death French
philosopher/scientist Jacques Turgot
wrote: "He seized the lightning from
the sky and the scepter from the hand
of tyrants."
Edward Fisher (1730-ca. 1785), after Mason Chamberlin
(d. 1787)
Benjamin Franklin of Philadelphia, 1763
Mezzotint
Prints & Photographs Division (32)
LC-DIG-ppmsca-10083
The Franklin Stove
Benjamin Franklin
An Account of the New Invented
Franklin wrote this description of the stove he had invented to
promote sales of a model being manufactured by his friend Robert
Grace. A series of partitioned iron plates permits a continuous
supply of fresh warm air, separated from the smoke, to be
distributed equally throughout the room. By controlling the airflow,
less heat is lost, and much less wood is needed. Franklin's stove
became so popular in England and Europe that this essay was
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Pennsylvanian Fire-Places.
frequently reprinted and translated into several foreign languages.
Page 2
Philadelphia: Printed and Sold by B.
Franklin, 1744
Rare Book & Special Collections Division
(35)
Franklin's Design for
Bifocals
Benjamin Franklin is credited with the
invention of bifocal glasses, which he
sketched here for his friend George
Whatley, a London merchant and
pamphleteer. Franklin told Whately he
found them particularly useful at
dinner in France, where he could see
the food he was eating and watch the
facial expressions of those seated at
the table with him, which helped
interpret the words being said. He
wrote: "I understand French better by
the help of my Spectacles."
Benjamin Franklin to George Whatley (ca. 1709-1791),
May 23, 1785
Letterpress manuscript
Manuscript Division (36)
Partial Transcription
Experiments in Electricity
Benjamin Franklin.
Experiments and Observations on
Electricity, made at Philadelphia in
America, By Benjamin Franklin.
In 1751, Peter Collinson, President of the Royal Society, arranged
for the publication of a series of letters from Benjamin Franklin,
1747 to 1750, describing his experiments on electricity. Franklin
demonstrated his new theory of positive and negative charges,
suggested the electrical nature of lightning, and proposed a tall,
grounded rod as a protection against lightning. These experiments
established Franklin's reputation as a scientist, and in 1753 he
received the Copley Medal of the Royal Society for his contributions
to the knowledge of lightning and electricity.
Page 2
London, Printed for David Henry, 1769
Rare Book & Special Collections Division
(37A)
On Electricity
Benjamin Franklin's formulation of a
general theory of electrical "action"
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won him an international reputation in
pure science in his own day. Writing
to Dutch physician and scientist Jan
Ingenhousz, Franklin responds to a
number of his friend's questions about
electricity and the Leyden jar, an early
form of electrical condenser. In this
draft scientific report, it appears that
Franklin wrote his answers first using
dark ink, leaving room for the
questions, which he wrote in red ink.
Benjamin Franklin
"Queries from Dr. Ingenhousz, with my Answers, B.F."
Page 2 - Page 3
Holograph report with annotations, [1777]
Enlarged version: Page 1 - Page 2 - Page 3
Manuscript Division (38)
Partial Transcription
Franklin Explains the Effects of Lightning
Benjamin Franklin to Jan Ingenhousz, 1777
In this lengthy essay intended for his fellow scientist Jan
Ingenhousz, Benjamin Franklin attempted to explain the effects of
lightning on a church steeple in Cremona, Italy, by describing the
effects of electricity on various metals. He based his hypothesis on
other written accounts, and used this sketch of a tube of tin foil to
aid in his explanation.
Manuscript essay
Enlarged version
Manuscript Division (39)
Partial Transcription
Mapping the Gulf Stream
Although Spanish explorers had
described the Gulf Stream, Franklin,
fascinated by the fact that the sea
journey from North America to
England was shorter than the return
trip, asked his cousin, Nantucket sea
captain Timothy Folger, to map its
dimensions and course. Franklin
published this map and his directions
for avoiding it in the Transactions of
the American Philosophical Society in
1786. Systematic research, conducted
by the U.S. Coast Survey, of the Gulf
Benjamin Franklin
"Maritime Observations and A Chart of the Gulph
Stream"
in Transactions of the American Philosophical Society.
Philadelphia: 1796
Engraved map
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Stream did not occur until 1845.
Geography & Map Division (40A)
[gmd9/g9112/g9112g/ct000136]
Franklin Battles the Common Cold
Benjamin Franklin
"Hints concerning what is called Catching a
Cold," [1773]
Despite his eminence in scientific circles, Benjamin Franklin
remained concerned with the more practical applications of
scientific study. This sheet entitled "Definition of a Cold" is one of a
series bearing Franklin's notes for a paper he intended to write on
the subject. Exercise, bathing, and moderation in food and drink
consumption were just some of his steps to avoid the common cold.
Page 2
Manuscript document
Enlarged version: Page 1 - Page 2
Manuscript Division (41)
Partial Transcription
The Aurora Borealis
Benjamin Franklin's interest in the
mystery of the "Northern Lights" is
said to have begun on his voyages
across the North Atlantic to England.
He ascribed the shifting lights to a
concentration of electrical charges in
the polar regions intensified by the
snow and other moisture. He
reasoned that this overcharging
caused a release of electrical
illumination into the air. In this essay,
which he wrote in English and French,
Franklin analyzed the causes of the
Aurora Borealis. It was read at the
French Académie des Sciences on
April 14, 1779.
Benjamin Franklin (1706-1790)
"Suppositions and Conjectures on the Aurora
Borealis," [ca. December 1778]
Page 2 - Page 3 - Page 4
Manuscript essay
Enlarged version: Page 1 -Page 2 - Page 3 - Page 4
Manuscript Division (42)
Partial Transcription
Franklin's Armonica
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Before leaving London in July 1762, Franklin wrote to the Italian
philosopher Giambatista Beccaria. Not having anything new to
report on their shared interest in electricity, Franklin described the
improvements he had made to the musical glasses invented by
Richard Puckeridge. By fitting a series of graduated glass discs on a
spindle laid horizontal in a case and revolving the spindle by a foot
treadle, Franklin could create bell-like tones by touching his wet
fingers to the revolving glasses. Franklin's armonica became
popular in Europe, with Mozart and Beethoven composing music for
it.
L'Armonica: Lettera del Signor Beniamino
Franklin al Padre Giambatista Beccaria,
Regio Professore di Fisica nell' Univ. di
Torino.
Page 2
[Milano?:1776?]
Rare Book & Special Collections Division
(43)
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Printer and Writer
For most people, Franklin's fame as a writer and printer rests on Poor Richard's Almanack which is commonly
recognized for the wit and wisdom spun by Franklin under the pseudonym Richard Saunders. But Benjamin
Franklin's accomplishments were far greater. He was considered the most accomplished printer in Colonial America.
His 1744 edition of Cicero's Cato Major . . . is the finest example of early American printing. Not content with a
successful career as a writer/printer, Franklin promoted a host of Philadelphia educational and benevolent societies
including the founding of the city's first lending library.
A Masterwork of Printing
M.T. Cicero's Cato Major, Franklin's personal favorite
from his press, is considered to be the finest example
of the printing art in colonial America. Furthermore,
this work by the Roman philosopher statesman Cicero
is the first classic work translated and printed in North
America.
In his "Printer to the Reader," Franklin explains that he
has printed this piece "in a large and fair Character,
that those who begin to think on the Subject of oldage, . . . may not, in Reading by the Pain small Letters
give the Eyes, feel the Pleasure of the Mind in the least
allayed."
Marcus Tullius Cicero (106-43 B.C.)
M. T. Cicero's Cato Major, or, his Discourse of Old-Age.
Translated by James Logan.
Philadelphia: Printed and Sold by B. Franklin, 1744
Rare Book & Special Collections Division (44)
One of the America's First
Magazines
Franklin was the first to propose a monthly
magazine for the American colonies. John Webb,
whom Franklin had hoped to engage as editor,
shared these plans with Franklin's rival, Andrew
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Bradford, and those two decided to publish a
magazine. Both printers issued their first number
in February 1741. Bradford's American Magazine,
which may have beaten Franklin's General
Magazine by a few days, lasted only three
issues, while Franklin's magazine survived for
six.
The General Magazine, and Historical Chronicle, for all the
British Plantations in America.
Printed and Sold by B. Franklin, January 1741
Rare Book & Special Collections Division (45)
Promoting Useful Knowledge
This rare broadsheet is the founding document of the
American Philosophical Society, the oldest scientific
society in America. Franklin proposed that Philadelphia
members would exchange information and ideas
regarding all fields of natural and applied science and
correspond with members in other colonies and
countries about practical matters to benefit their lives
and improve mankind. Franklin served as society
secretary during the early years, and later as
president, when regular correspondence was
established with the Royal Societies of London and
Dublin. Franklin encouraged communication between
the learned societies to continue even during the
Revolution.
[Benjamin Franklin].
A Proposal for Promoting Useful Knowledge among the
British Plantations in America.
Page 2
Philadelphia, 1743
Rare Book & Special Collections Division (46)
Benjamin Franklin's Personal
Liturgy
Benjamin Franklin asserted in his autobiography
that he had quickly tired of formal religious
services, but that early in life he had written his
own private articles of religious belief and a
simple liturgy to be read on Sundays.
Benjamin Franklin (1706-1790)
"Articles of Belief and Acts of Religion," November 20, 1728
Manuscript document
Manuscript Division (47)
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Partial Transcription
Ephrata Community Songbook
Founder of the German Seventh-Day Baptists Johann Conrad Beissel immigrated with the community to
Ephrata, Pennsylvania, in 1732. Beissel served as the spiritual director of the group as well as its composer,
devising his own system of composition. The group's illuminated musical manuscripts were hand-lettered in
Fraktur and are among the earliest original music composed in the British colonies. This illustrated hymnal
was once in the possession of Benjamin Franklin. The rare second compilation of Beissel's hymns was printed
in roman type without music by Benjamin Franklin in 1732.
Ephrata Community
Die bittre Gute, oder Das Gesäng der einsamen Turtel-Taube . .
.
Page 2
Manuscript hymnal, 1746
Music Division (49)
[Conrad Beissel].
Vorspiel der Neuen-Welt.
Page 2
Philadelphia, Benjamin Franklin, 1732
Rare Book & Special Collections Division (48)
Printed Currency
Soon after establishing himself as an independent printer, Benjamin Franklin was awarded the "very
profitable Jobb" of printing Pennsylvania bills of credit, partly because he had written and published a
pamphlet on the need for paper currency in 1729. He was similarly employed by New Jersey and Delaware.
Aware of the threat from counterfeiters, Franklin devised the use of mica in the paper and leaf imprints as
ways to foil counterfeiters--both of these methods can be seen in these samples of currency printed by
Franklin and his partner David Hall and later by the firm of Hall and William Sellers.
Reverse of Bill
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Reverse of Bill
Reverse of Bill
Reverse of Bill
Reverse of Bill
Reverse of Bill
Franklin and Hall [shillings]; Hall and Sellers [dollars]
Paper currency, various amounts and dates
Manuscript Division (50a-f)
The Art of Making Money
The Art of Making Money Plenty in Every Man's Pocket by Doctor
This humorous rendition of Franklin's teaching
that honesty, industry, and frugality are the keys
to full pockets has continued to be a popular
souvenir since it was first printed as a rebus in
1791. Here the familiar image of Franklin in a fur
cap is one that introduced Franklin to France in
1777.
Franklin.
New York: P. Maverick, 1817
Enlarged version
Rare Book & Special Collections Division (51)
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Franklin's First Book
While working as a printer in London, Franklin
published his first pamphlet at nineteen. In this
metaphysical piece, a reply to William Wollaston's The
Religion of Nature Delineated, Franklin argued that if
God was infinite wisdom and goodness, vice and virtue
were empty distinctions. After distributing a few copies
to his friends, Franklin became disenchanted with his
reasoning and destroyed all remaining copies but one.
Benjamin Franklin (1706-1790).
A Dissertation on Liberty and Necessity, Pleasure and
Pain.
London, 1725
Rare Book & Special Collections Division (52)
Poor Richard's Almanack
[Benjamin Franklin].
Poor Richard, 1739. An Almanack for the Year of Christ 1739.
Philadelphia: Printed and Sold by B. Franklin, 1738
As a writer, Franklin was best known for the wit
and wisdom he shared with the readers of his
popular almanac, Poor Richard, under the
pseudonym "Richard Saunders." In his
autobiography, Franklin notes that he began
publishing his almanac in 1732 and continued for
twenty-five years: "I endeavour'd to make it
both entertaining and useful, and it accordingly
came to be in such Demand that I reap'd
considerable Profit from it, vending annually near
ten Thousand."
Rare Book & Special Collections Division (53)
The Way to Wealth
For his twenty-fifth almanac, for the year 1758, Franklin
created a clever preface that reprised a number of
proverbs from the almanac, framed as an event reported
by Richard Saunders, in which Father Abraham advises a
crowd attending a country auction that those seeking
prosperity and virtue should diligently practice frugality
and industry. Reprinted as Father Abraham's Speech and
The Way to Wealth, this piece has been translated into
many languages and is the most extensively reprinted of
all of Franklin's writings. This is the first broadside
edition, a popular format that allowed it to be tacked up
on walls and distributed by clergy and gentry.
Richard Saunders [Benjamin Franklin].
The Way to Wealth, and a Plan by which Every Man
may pay his Taxes.
Philadelphia: Printed by Daniel Humphreys, 1785
Enlarged version
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Rare Book & Special Collections Division (53A)
"Public Education for Our Youth"
Benjamin Franklin
"Observations Relative to the Intentions of the Original
Founders of the Academy in Philadelphia," June, 1789
Page 2
Manuscript essay
Throughout his life Benjamin Franklin had
worked to educate the youth and citizens of
Philadelphia. In this essay, he discussed his
efforts to found a public subscription library in
1732, while seeking improvements in the
governing of the Philadelphia Academy in 1789.
When he died, Franklin left substantial bequests
to fund public education in Philadelphia and
Boston. By 1990, the remaining funds, totally
more than seven million dollars, were distributed
to schools and scholarship funds.
Manuscript Division (56)
Partial Transcription
Franklin's Autobiography
Franklin was sixty-five when he wrote the first part of his
autobiography that focused on his early life to 1730.
During the 1780s he added three briefer parts that
advanced his story to his fiftieth year (1756) and revised
the first part. In the summer of 1790, shortly after his
death, extracts of Franklin's memoirs appeared in two
Philadelphia magazines, but the first book-length edition,
based on a French translation, was published in 1791.
The first English edition was published in London in
1793. Although William Temple Franklin's 1818 edition
became the standard version, John Bigelow's 1858
edition was the first complete publication of all four parts
taken directly from Franklin's own manuscript.
[Benjamin Franklin]
The Private Life of the Late Benjamin Franklin, LL.D.
Late Minister Plenipotentiary from the United States of
America to France, &c.
London, Printed for J. Parsons, 1793
Rare Book & Special Collections Division (60)
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Epitaph
Portrait of Franklin
The original oil portrait, upon which
this engraving of Franklin was based,
was a prized possession of Donatien
Le Ray de Chaumont, Franklin's host
while in the Paris suburb of Passay
where Franklin lived from 1777-1785.
The print carries an inscription in
French that reads: "Honor of the New
World and of Humanity, This lovable
and true sage guides and enlightens
them; Like another mentor, he
conceals from the common eye,
Under the features of a mortal, a
divinity."
Juste Chevillet (1729-1802) [after a painting by Joseph
Duplessis (1725-1802)]
Benjamin Franklin. Né à Boston, dans la Nouvelle
Angleterre, le 17 Janv. 1706
Engraving, 1778
Prints & Photographs Division (1)
LC-DIG-ppmsca-10080
A Letter to His Wife
Benjamin Franklin to Deborah Franklin
On the occasion of his birthday, January 6, 1773 (old-style,
according to the Julian calendar) Benjamin Franklin reflects on
earlier years with his wife, Deborah Read Rogers Franklin. Franklin
recalls that "It seems but t'other Day since you and I were rank'd
among the Boys and Girls, so swiftly does Time fly!" But Franklin
still looked forward to "so great a Share of Health and Strength. . .
http://www.loc.gov/exhibits/treasures/franklin-epitaph.html
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Epitaph: Benjamin Franklin: In His Own Words... (AmericanTreasures of the Library of Congr...
(1705?-1774), January 6, 1773
Page 2 of 4
as to render Life yet comfortable."
Page 2
Manuscript letter
Enlarged version: Page 1 - Page 2
Manuscript Division (54)
Partial Transcription
Jefferson Eulogizes
Benjamin Franklin
After Benjamin Franklin's death in
1790, Thomas Jefferson, then
Secretary of State, wrote to the
Reverend William Smith, who had
been recruited by Franklin to head
the new Philadelphia Academy,
recalling that there was "more
respect and veneration attached to
the character of Doctor Franklin in
France than to that of any other
person in the same country."
|
Thomas Jefferson (1743-1826) to William Smith (17271803), February 19, 1791
Page 2
Manuscript letter
Enlarged version: Page 1 - Page 2
Manuscript Division (55)
Partial Transcription
Philadelphia Accepts Legacy from Franklin
Report of the Committee "to whom was
referrd the consideration of the Legacy left
by Doct. B. Franklin to the Corporation,"
June 18, 1790
Benjamin Franklin, who like George Washington believed that public
officials should work without a salary, stipulated in his will that his
salary as president of the Executive Council of Pennsylvania should
be given to the cities of Boston and Philadelphia. Trusts were
established to manage the funds and to loan money at interest to
apprentices seeking to establish their own business. Two trade
schools, the Franklin Union in Boston and the Franklin Institute were
later established with these funds and in 1990, as devised by
Franklin, the funds, then worth more than seven million dollars,
were distributed to schools and scholarship funds.
Manuscript document
Manuscript Division (57)
Partial Transcription
http://www.loc.gov/exhibits/treasures/franklin-epitaph.html
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Epitaph: Benjamin Franklin: In His Own Words... (AmericanTreasures of the Library of Congr...
Page 3 of 4
Praise for Franklin from
James Madison
James Madison had high praise for
Benjamin Franklin's intellect and
personality in his notes for a
biographical memorandum on
Franklin: "I never passed half an hour
in his company without hearing some
observation or anecdote worth
remembering."
James Madison's (1751-1836) notes on Benjamin
Franklin
Manuscript document, post 1817
Enlarged version
Manuscript Division (58)
Partial Transcription
The Senate Rejects Efforts to Honor Franklin
William Maclay's diary April 23, 1790
After Benjamin Franklin's death on April 17, 1790, the United States
House of Representatives voted to wear black crepe as "a mark of
the veneration due to his memory," but the United States Senate,
as reported by Pennsylvania Senator William Maclay, refused to
wear "crape on their arms for a Month" and did not publicly
acknowledge Franklin's death until 1791.
Manuscript diary
Enlarged version
Manuscript Division (59)
Partial Transcription
Franklin's Epitaph
A young Benjamin Franklin wrote this
doggerel verse in 1728 to serve as
his epitaph. Franklin, who loved to
write humorous and satirical verses
as well as essays, made copies of this
verse for friends at various times in
his life. This version, not in Franklin's
hand, was among the papers owned
http://www.loc.gov/exhibits/treasures/franklin-epitaph.html
7/15/2006
Epitaph: Benjamin Franklin: In His Own Words... (AmericanTreasures of the Library of Congr...
by Franklin's grandson, William
Temple Franklin.
Page 4 of 4
Benjamin Franklin (1706-1790)
Epitaph, 1728
Manuscript verse
Manuscript Division (61)
Partial Transcription
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February 2, 2006
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7/15/2006