Dr. Benjamin Franklin, LL.D., F.R.S.

Williamsburg, VA

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Travels up to 200 miles

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The True American Revolution

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Overview

Dr. Benjamin Franklin has appeared at the American Revolution Museum at Yorktown, and other museums; at schools and special events. He is happy to speak on any subject of interest to his hosts; his childhood, youth, education; his experiments with electricity and that famous kite; the Declaration of Independence, the American Revolution, the Constitutional Convention; his life in London and Paris. But the good doctor is even happier to chat with the company, and answer all their questions about his life and times.


Reviews

1 review

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Amy A.

April 23, 2026
Verified review

A Wonderful Benjamin Franklin

Great to work with and helped make for a great event!

Hired as: Historical Character

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Booking information

Price range: Contact for rates

Languages: English

Gig length: 30 - 120 minutes

What to expect

Dr. Franklin does not dance or sing, nor set off fireworks.

He is happy, however, to talk on any subject: his childhood, his electrical experiments, his life in Boston, Philadelphia, London, Paris, the Declaration of Indepence, the Constitutional Convention, his views on slavery, his observations of the first humans to fly, or a subject selected by the client.

He is delighted to chat with the public, either taking Q&A from a stage, or mingling with the company.

NB: While I prefer to "stay in character" and not spoil the illusion, if the client wishes I am also happy to "break character" and speak as myself, perhaps addressing questions that Dr. Franklin might not be able to answer.

About

B. J. Pryor joined Colonial Williamsburg in 1980 and worked there for nearly 40 years. Among other things, he portrayed several 18th century people there, including statesmen, clergymen, college professors, ... and Benjamin Franklin. He has been bringing Dr. Franklin to life since 2016. He speaks at museums, schools, libraries, special events; in fact, anywhere the wit, wisdom, memories and knowledge of Dr. Franklin are wanted.

Additional booking notes

Dr. Franklin requires no special arrangement, but is willing to use a microphone if the client wishes it.

Setup requirements

No equipment is needed. A table and chair would be nice, if appropriate, but are not necessary.

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