Ben Franklin in Philadelphia

Ben Franklin was an incredible man - a scientist; thinker and key player in the events that founded the United States. There are a number of good biographies available. His own autobiography is well worth reading.

Franklin's ancestors came from the village of Ecton in Northamptonshire, England. He lived in London for many years - and now it is possible to visit Benjamin Franklin House, close to Charing Cross Station. But he was born an American - and he made his home in Philadelphia.

During my visit to that city this week I took this short video -