Old City in Philadelphia in Philadelphia County, Pennsylvania — The American Northeast (Mid-Atlantic)
The History of Franklin Court
Photographed By Beverly Pfingsten, July 5, 2008
1. The History of Franklin Court Marker
In this yard, now known as Franklin Court, formerly stood the home of Benjamin Franklin. In his later years, Franklin also built three Market Street houses and a Print Shop for his printer-publisher grandson, Benjamin Franklin Bache.
Franklin first saw the site at 17, while lodging with the family of his future wife. Deborah Read, in a small house at the front of this lot. Once together, Benjamin and Deborah inherited and acquired the neighboring properties.
By the early 1760's, Franklin contracted with a master carpenter, Robert Smith, to build a large house to stand in a quiet garden deep in the middle of the block.
Franklin left for England while the house was under construction during 1763-65. Tragically, before Benjamin's return to his new home, Deborah had died.
Fortunately for Ben, his daughter Sarah and husband, Richard Bache, had moved into the house, filling it with grandchildren. Returning in 1775, Franklin soon found the house too small; at the age of 81, he added an extension.
Topics. This historical marker is listed in these topic lists: Colonial Era • Industry & Commerce • Settlements & Settlers. A significant historical year for this entry is 1775.
Location. 39° 56.958′ N, 75° 8.8′ W. Marker is in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
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Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker. Franklin Court (here, next to this marker); Historic Site in Journalism (here, next to this marker); Franklin Privy Pit (a few steps from this marker); Remnant of Brick Flooring (a few steps from this marker); Fragment of Stone Foundation Wall (within shouting distance of this marker); In 1812 (within shouting distance of this marker); Where is Benjamin Franklin's House? (within shouting distance of this marker); Franklin's Neighborhood (within shouting distance of this marker). Touch for a list and map of all markers in Philadelphia.
Photographed By Beverly Pfingsten, July 5, 2008
2. Franklin's House
Metal Frame outlines Franklin's house. The box in the foreground is a viewing area showing the foundation of the original structure. The brick building in the background is one of the Market Steeet houses that were part of the property.
Credits. This page was last revised on April 6, 2024. It was originally submitted on July 25, 2008, by Bill Pfingsten of Bel Air, Maryland. This page has been viewed 818 times since then and 20 times this year. Photos: 1, 2. submitted on July 25, 2008, by Bill Pfingsten of Bel Air, Maryland.
