Franklin Court

Franklin Court is a complex with steel-frame ghost structures marking Benjamin Franklin's former residence alongside an underground museum with historical artifacts and exhibits. The site includes working spaces with an 18th-century print shop where visitors can watch demonstrations of colonial printing techniques.

The original house was built in 1763 and served as Benjamin's residence during the Continental Congress and Constitutional Convention until his death in 1790. Archaeological excavations in the 1950s uncovered the original foundations, leading to the creation of the steel frame structures visitors see today.

The museum displays five exhibition rooms that explore different aspects of Franklin's life through films, documents, and hands-on activities. Visitors can learn how this versatile person divided his time among science, writing, and public service.

The museum sits in the heart of the old neighborhood and is easily accessible on foot, with clear paths connecting both indoor and outdoor areas. Visitors should plan time for the underground exhibits, as these offer important context about what lies beneath the surface.

The steel frame structures are not solid but rather outlines showing the exact shape and size of the former house, an unusual way to interpret history. This design lets visitors see through the structure while understanding the footprint, offering a fresh perspective on archaeological remains.

Location: Philadelphia

Inception: 1976

Architects: Robert Venturi and Denise Scott Brown

Official opening: April 20, 1976

Architectural style: postmodern architecture

Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible

Website: https://nps.gov/inde/learn/historyculture/places-franklincourt.htm

GPS coordinates: 39.94966,-75.14659

Latest update: December 7, 2025 20:42