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Sightseeing

The bronze statue of Benjamin Franklin

📍 Boston · USA
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Quick Facts

Location
USA, Boston
Category
Sightseeing
Coordinates
42.3577, -71.0590

Introduction

The bronze statue of Benjamin Franklin, located in front of Boston's Old City Hall, is an iconic sculpture honoring this American Founding Father and the versatile "First American." Created by sculptor Richard Greenough and unveiled in 1856, it was Boston's first public statue honoring Franklin. The statue depicts Franklin in 18th-century formal attire holding a manuscript in a contemplative pose, with the base inscribed with his birth year 1706 and the quote "The riches of the learned are above those of all kings." Franklin was born in 1706 on Boston's Milk Street, and though he later moved to Philadelphia, Boston has always taken pride in him. The Old City Hall housing the statue was Boston's government seat, and the building itself is an excellent example of 19th-century French Second Empire style. The statue, Old City Hall, and surrounding historic district together form the classic landscape of Boston's historic core, making it a must-visit for understanding American founding history.

✨ Highlights

1
1856 Historic Bronze
Created by Richard Greenough and unveiled in 1856, Boston's first public Franklin statue.
2
Contemplative Franklin
The statue depicts Franklin in 18th-century attire holding a manuscript, capturing his scholarly thinker character.
3
Old City Hall Setting
The statue stands before the 19th-century French Second Empire Old City Hall, together forming a historic landscape.
4
Franklin's Birthplace
Franklin was born in 1706 on Boston's Milk Street, and Boston has always taken pride in him despite his Philadelphia move.
5
Inscribed Quote
The base bears his birth year and quote about the wealth of the learned, reflecting his values.

🛈 Practical Info

→Best Time to Visit：Morning light is best for photos, combine with other Freedom Trail sites
→Special Tip：Statue in Old City Hall plaza, surrounded by Boston Latin School site and other historic landmarks
→Opening Hours：Statue on public street, viewable anytime
→Ticket Information：Free
→Transportation：Take MBTA Blue or Green Line to Government Center Station, 3-minute walk

💡 Tips

• The statue is on the Freedom Trail, combine with Old South Meeting House and Faneuil Hall.
• Morning front lighting is best, include Old City Hall for historic atmosphere.
• Boston Latin School site (America's oldest public school) and King's Chapel nearby.
• Combine with Franklin's Milk Street birthplace plaque to trace this Founding Father's Boston roots.

FAQ

What are the opening hours of The bronze statue of Benjamin Franklin?

Statue on public street, viewable anytime

How much is the admission for The bronze statue of Benjamin Franklin?

Free

Any practical tips for visiting The bronze statue of Benjamin Franklin?

The statue is on the Freedom Trail, combine with Old South Meeting House and Faneuil Hall. Morning front lighting is best, include Old City Hall for historic atmosphere.