Ben Franklin, by David Martin 1767

This outstanding traveling exhibit explores the many surprising facets of Benjamin Franklin's life through multi-media, interactive displays and through Franklin's writings and possessions, many of which have never before been seen by the public. Also, new insight can be gained into the early history and formation of this country by experiencing the unfolding of events through the eyes of one of its founders. Five original founding documents, all signed by Franklin, are on display.

The exhibit, entitled "Benjamin Franklin:  In Search of a Better World", is divided into six sections representing the progression of Franklin's life: Character Matters, B. Franklin Printer, Civic Visions, Useful Knowledge, World Stage, and Seeing Franklin. Among the many artifacts on display is the original printing press used by Franklin in London as a youth and some of his finest examples of printing. Other highlights include some of his electrical apparatus used for scientific experiments, original portraits painted of him throughout his life, and furnishings and table settings from his homes in Philadelphia, England, and France. Another item of interest is his invention, the glass "armonica", which is accompanied by a video of a musician playing this amazing instrument. His family, an little known aspect of Franklin's life to many, is also covered in the exhibit.

Immersed in the sights and sounds of Benjamin Franklin's world, one cannot fail to be impressed by the breadth and depth of his genius. Starting from humble beginnings and only two years of formal education, he produced a remarkable string of achievements that seem unattainable by a single individual. He created the first franchise business with a network of printing establishments that stretched to the Carribean, allowing him to amass a fortune by age 42. He made important and widely acclaimed contributions to science, engineering many of these into beneficial inventions, such as the lightening rod. He invented swim fins and was the first to map the Gulf Stream.  He fostered several lasting American institutions, including the Post Office and Public Library system, and formed the Junto, whose members were responsible for founding a multitude of other American institutions. He negotiated early Indian treaties and was instrumental in enlisting France in the Revolutionary War effort -- a critical element in the success of American independence from Britain. He was one of first strong voices against slavery. Benjamin Franklin became the most well known American in his day. This exhibit, which ends May 20, goes a long way in helping us understand how he accomplished all of this.

After Denver the exhibit travels to Atlanta and Paris. 

Denver Museum of Nature and Science