Franklin Court

Franklin Court offers curious visitors multiple perspectives of colonial life through restorative, modern and original displays. The courtyard has two entrances—one off of Chestnut Street and another off of Market Street. Many tourists peek around the corner and discover the wonder of Franklin Court themselves.

Franklin Court is also a popular destination for locals and workers from nearby offices to stroll or congregate during lunchtime. During peak tourist times (spring and summer, especially in the afternoon), Franklin Court is often populated by school children. For kids, Franklin Court is a great research destination because a great deal of historical and architectural information is provided on display signposts and stands.

Until the 19th century, the stone courtyard of Franklin Court was entirely encompassed by Benjamin Franklin’s original home. Since the house’s demise, a “ghost structure” (created by Robert Venturi) now stands as a reminder of its placement. The ghost structure is unobtrusive, large and white. Since it’s a frame without walls, visitors can walk beneath the ghost structure unimpeded. 

In the courtyard, visitors can look down upon the underground museum, protected via a clear display. The underground museum reveals the underpinnings of Franklin’s original home—including his privy (he may have done some of his best thinking there). Within the museum, visitors can also learn about Franklin’s life at Franklin Court using various films and other multimedia displays.

In addition to the courtyard, Franklin Court includes the B. Free Franklin Post Office, Postal Service Museum, the General Advertiser and the Printing Office and Bindery. Touring these facilities offers visitors the ability to experience Franklin’s innovation and forward-thinking sense of commerce. 

The Printing Office and Bindery is the site at which many revolutionary pamphlets were set, printed and distributed by Benjamin Franklin. The Franklin Post Office still operates, using the original “B. Free Franklin” wording on its postmark. 

Franklin Court is an ideal historical location for those wishing to experience a large amount of history in a small area. Easily accessible from either side, this is an ideal destination for decent weather as some of the Franklin Court destinations are outdoor while others are located indoors in spaces of varying capacity. To avoid crowds, try touring during earlier open hours. 

- by Tara M. Clapper, Philadelphia Reporter for HelloMetro  (Click to leave a message)