Benjamin Franklin

http://www.npg.si.edu/exh/franklin/chamber.htm

For the Fred Jones Jr. Museum I chose to display a portrait of Benjamin Franklin. He is a well known man of science and the history of the United States. Benjamin Franklin explored a large range of talents including music, science, and the founding of a nation. I find him most interesting because of his wide range of talents and endeavors. Everything from music to the founding of a nation, Benjamin Franklin worked elegantly to perfect them all. 

In this photo Franklin is shown in what seems to be mid thought listening to the signal bells beside his chair. We all know Franklin to have invented electricity with a kite and key. Here, outside his window, shows yet another electrical invention of his known as the lightning rod. He uses this invention to direct the electricity into his house, allowing him to experiment with the electrical energy. The bells, noticed by his chair, were used to signal the connection of lightning to the pole. Along with his experiments the lighting rod was used to protect peoples homes. In the 1700's electrical fires were a great cause of house fires so Franklin came up with an idea to redirect the electricity into the ground, rather than the home. The rod, pointed to the sky, was connected to a cable that stretched from the pole deep into the ground. The lightning was thus attracted to the pole and (hopefully) not the house and lives were protected. 

I enjoy this portrait for the fact that it encompases much of, what I believe to be, Franklins persona. It shows his elegance, intelligence, and lack of fear all in the name of science and his beliefs. Benjamin Franklin is an important figure to understand. Whether it be his scientific endeavors or his political influence, his donations to our current society and that of the future hinge largely upon the research and knowledge he has bestowed upon us.