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Benjamin Franklin

Performed by the American Historical Theater

Benjamin Franklin was one of the Founding Fathers of the United States; a drafter and signer of the Declaration of Independence; and the first postmaster general. Suitable for children 8 and up.

On July 4, 2026, America will celebrate 250 years of independence. 

Of all the Founding Fathers of our nation, Franklin most represents the common man, in fact, his life rather defined the basic values that we still hold so dear to this day.
And yet, in so many other ways, no other American has achieved quite so much as Franklin did during his long life in the 18th Century. With no more than two years of formal education, he founded a University and a Hospital. His work in the field of electricity has defined the basic principles of that science which we still utilize today. As Postmaster- General, founder of the first professional Fire Fighting organization, Fire Insurance company and Public Lending Library in North America, his record for public service is unmatched.

Franklin did not limit his public service with just those organizations, though. He is also renowned for having invented the lightning rod, bifocals, swim fins, the odometer and a host of other creations, all meant to add to the comfort and enjoyment of his fellow citizens. At no time did he ever seek to patent or limit the use of his work in any way, wishing only that his inventions would serve to benefit his fellow man to the fullest.

Performer: Bill Ochester began to pursue a lifelong interest in early American history, following his retirement from a career in the demanding field of Cardiothoracic Surgery in 1998. This drastic change of focus was remarkably refreshing for Bill, and a new passion emerged at full fury.
Bill is now a full-time 18th Century historical interpreter. He was hired on to the staff of the National Constitution Center as an Exhibit Interpreter prior to their grand opening in July of 2003. He is also a Board Member of the American Revolution Round Table of
Philadelphia, as well as an accomplished historical tour guide in olde City Philadelphia and Valley Forge.

Bill has appeared as Franklin on numerous occasions at the National Constitution Center, the University of Pennsylvania, the Free Library of Philadelphia, the Kimmel Center, The National Archives, Independence Hall, for WordStrides’ Teaching American History Workshops and for many other venues.

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