Fragments of Franklin Court

Fragments of Franklin Court marks the site of Benjamin Franklin’s former home in Independence National Historical Park, at 322 Market St in Philadelphia. The house was torn down, but a framework outlines its shape, and openings reveal surviving foundation fragments. Read the information set into the courtyard, then look for a live demonstration at the nearby Franklin Court Printing Office, where staff use an old-fashioned press. The courtyard is free to explore; the adjacent Benjamin Franklin Museum gives a fuller account of his life and inventions and charges admission.

The house marked in the courtyard

Benjamin Franklin lived on this site from 1763 until his death in 1790. His home no longer stands. The framework in the courtyard traces the house’s former shape, while openings offer views of surviving foundation fragments. Information placed around the court helps explain the site and Franklin’s connection to it.

The design was created by Venturi and Rauch, and the complex opened in 1976 as part of the United States Bicentennial. Franklin Court is part of Independence National Historical Park, among the historic sites and museums in Philadelphia’s Old City.

Printing and the museum

The Franklin Court Printing Office is next to the courtyard. Its late-18th-century-style shop uses a press similar to one Franklin would have known, and staff demonstrate how printing worked. Printed items made at the shop are also available for purchase.

The Benjamin Franklin Museum sits within the courtyard complex. Its exhibits cover Franklin’s life, work and inventions. The museum requires a separate ticket; the courtyard and shop can be visited without entering the museum. The reception area provides city information and assistance with tour bookings, and the building also has a gift shop.