Benjamin Franklin's Grave at Christ Church Burial Ground

Plaque near the entrance to Christ Church Burial Ground.

Benjamin Franklin's grave viewed through the iron rails of Christ Church
Burial Ground. Visitors leave pennies on the grave.  (photos: TheHopefulTraveler)

On two acres at the corner of Arch Street and 5th Street in Philadelphia is Christ Church Burial Ground. The Colonial and Revolutionary-era graveyard with over 1,400 markers is the final resting place for Benjamin Franklin and his wife. The iron rails by his grave were added at the request of Franklin's descendants so one can still view the gravesite when the burial ground is closed. Christ Church (located at 2nd Street) is an Anglian church founded 1695. The burial ground was not begun until 1719.

Benjamin Franklin (1706-1790) was one of the founding fathers of the United States. He was an author, printer, politician, inventor and scientist among his many endeavors.

Visit christchurchphila.org for more information. The Burial Ground is open March-December. Hours: Mon-Sat 10am-4pm; Sun 12pm-4pm. Admission: $2 adults; $1 students. Guided tours available for an additional fee of $3 for adults and $1 for students. Tours given from 11am-3:30pm.

After a day of sightseeing, I choose not to venture into the burial ground and instead headed back to my hotel for some rest before heading out for dinner and to attend a theatre performance. Besides I wanted to walk back to my hotel and wanted to do it at a leisurely pace.

Christ Church Burial Grounds