Benjamin Franklin's London House

We've just returned from London tonight where we spent an amazing afternoon touring the Benjamin Franklin House. This fledgling museum was home to Benjamin Franklin for his entire 16 years in London. Because of Mr. Franklin's critical role as a diplomat, it has been referred to as America's First Embassy in Great Britain.

Benjamin Franklin was always one of my personal historical heroes. I admire the way he achieved a balance in his life between his role as a diplomat and his great curiosity for science. Although he was unable to achieve his greatest challenge, that of preventing war between Great Britain and the American Colonies, his influence nevertheless helped forge the unbreakable bond between the two countries which has flourished since.

As to the museum itself, there are a number of interesting exhibits including the history of the house itself, but the innovative tour, dubbed a "Historical Experience" made our day one of the most unique museum visits we have ever had. It was led by Polly Hewson, daughter of Franklin's landlady who became a 'second daughter' to Franklin. As Polly, played by Ms. Katheryn Sharrat, led us from room to room, it seemed that every door opened to facts we had not known about the great man. And through Ms. Sharrat's dramatic interpretation of her role, one could almost feel the emotion that must have been present when Mr. Franklin was in residence. There can be no question that Ms. Sharrat is destined for much wider audiences, so if you are interested in the life of Benjamin Franklin, see this museum quickly so you can still enjoy her performance.

This is a museum that deserves our support. We will be doing so and hope that many of you do so as well. There is so much more that can be done to make this history come alive, but even today it is an experience not to be missed.

To learn more about the Benjamin Franklin House, please visit their website at: www.benjaminfranklinhouse.org.