Franklin Court Printing Office

Franklin's printing office no longer survives, but you'll see similar printing equipment here.

NPS Photo

Quick Facts

Location:

320 Market Street

Significance:

Visitors can see firsthand how an 18th century printing office operated

Designation:

National Historical Park

Amenities

3 listed

Historical/Interpretive Information/Exhibits, Information - Ranger/Staff Member Present, Wheelchair Accessible

This site is located in Franklin Court, on Market Street between 3rd and 4th Streets. It is open Friday thru Sunday,10 am–5 pm, with the last printing demonstration at 4:30 pm.

A printer himself, Benjamin Franklin well understood the power of the press. Here, visitors can see firsthand how an 18th century printing office operated and discover the pivotal role the printed word played in the American Revolution and the founding of the nation. Adjacent to the Printing Office is the house Franklin built for his grandson, printer and newspaper owner Benjamin Franklin Bache. Bache's newspaper office provides a glimpse into the newspaper culture of the 1790s.