Christ Church Burial Ground is a historic cemetery at 340 N 5th St in Philadelphia, best known as the resting place of Benjamin and Deborah Franklin. Their grave has a simple, flat marble marker bearing both names; tossing a penny onto it is a longstanding tribute to Franklin. The grounds also hold the graves of other prominent figures from the Revolutionary era, including signers of the Declaration of Independence and early U.S. Navy leaders. Weathered stones and a burial guide map add context to a quiet visit among Philadelphia’s colonial history.
Benjamin Franklin’s grave
The most recognized grave in the burial ground belongs to Benjamin Franklin and his wife, Deborah. Their names are engraved on a plain, flat marble marker. The understated stone is easy to find, and people traditionally toss pennies onto it in tribute to Franklin. The custom draws on the saying associated with him, “a penny saved is a penny earned.”
Franklin’s grave is one point of interest in a cemetery with many early American figures. Take time to look beyond the familiar name: the grounds also contain graves of people connected to the Revolution and the early United States.
Other graves and the burial guide
Four other signers of the Declaration of Independence are buried here. The cemetery also includes markers for figures in medicine, politics and academia, as well as early U.S. Navy leaders such as Commodores Bainbridge and James Biddle, and Thomas Truxtun, a senior captain among the original six frigate commanders.
Many older stones have worn over time, and some inscriptions are difficult to read. A few have modern plaques that help identify their subjects. Pick up the burial guide map at the entrance and use it to find graves of particular interest. Guided tours are also offered, with additional context about the site and the people buried there.
Planning your visit
The burial ground is at 340 N 5th St. You need a ticket to enter, and advance tickets are recommended. The entrance is wheelchair accessible. The grounds provide a quiet setting for reading markers and reflecting on the people commemorated there; treat the cemetery with care as an active place of remembrance.
FAQ
Is there an entry fee for Christ Church Burial Ground?
A ticket is required to enter. Advance tickets are recommended.
Who is buried at Christ Church Burial Ground?
Benjamin and Deborah Franklin are buried here, along with four other signers of the Declaration of Independence and other prominent figures from the Revolutionary era.
Can you see Benjamin Franklin’s grave from outside?
A visitor account notes that the grave can be seen from the sidewalk, but a ticket is needed to enter the burial ground.
Is Christ Church Burial Ground wheelchair accessible?
The entrance is wheelchair accessible.
