Was Benjamin Franklin a Serial Killer?

In the realm of American history, few figures are as iconic and multifaceted as Benjamin Franklin. Known for his pivotal role as a Founding Father, a brilliant inventor, and a profound thinker, Franklin’s legacy is a cornerstone of American heritage. However, in recent years, an intriguing and rather macabre question has emerged, stirring both academic and public curiosity: Was Benjamin Franklin a serial killer? This startling query, rooted in a sensational discovery at his former London residence, has sparked widespread debate and speculation. In this comprehensive analysis, we delve into the historical evidence, separating fact from fiction, to address this question and explore its implications for our understanding of one of America’s most esteemed historical figures.

The Discovery at 36 Craven Street The genesis of the claim lies in a discovery made at 36 Craven Street, London, in 1998. During a renovation of Franklin’s former residence, a construction team unearthed over 1,200 pieces of bone from at least 15 individuals, both human and animal. This discovery, as reported by The Guardian, understandably sparked widespread speculation and intrigue (The Guardian).

Franklin’s Life in London To contextualize this finding, it’s essential to consider Franklin’s tenure in London. He resided at 36 Craven Street for nearly two decades, starting in 1757. This period was significant for Franklin’s diplomatic and scientific endeavors. However, it was also a time when medical science was in a nascent stage, and the study of anatomy was fraught with legal and ethical challenges.

The Role of William Hewson A crucial figure in this narrative is William Hewson, a noted anatomist and a close associate of Franklin. Hewson is known to have conducted numerous anatomical studies during this era. However, due to the stringent regulations surrounding the procurement of cadavers, anatomists often resorted to legally ambiguous means to obtain specimens. This practice, while unsettling by modern standards, was a common aspect of medical research at the time.

Forensic Analysis of the Remains Forensic examination of the Craven Street bones, as detailed in the journal “Archaeology”, provided critical insights (Archaeology). The bones showed signs of dissection, and some were drilled or cut in a manner consistent with anatomical study. Notably, there was no evidence to suggest violent or criminal acts leading to the death of these individuals.

Historical Context of Body Snatching The practice of body snatching for medical research was not uncommon in the 18th century. Medical students and researchers often faced a shortage of legal avenues to study human anatomy, leading to a clandestine trade in human remains. While morally questionable, this practice was driven by the scientific zeal of the era and the limitations imposed by contemporary laws.

Franklin’s Involvement There is no direct evidence linking Franklin to the procurement or dissection of these bodies. His association with Hewson and the discovery of the remains at his residence do not, in themselves, implicate him in any illicit activities. Franklin’s primary interests lay in diplomacy, publishing, and scientific experimentation, particularly in the fields of electricity and meteorology.

In conclusion, the claim that Benjamin Franklin was a serial killer is without merit. The discovery at 36 Craven Street, while initially shocking, aligns with the practices of medical research in the 18th century. It reflects the challenges faced by early anatomists and the lengths to which they went to advance scientific knowledge. Franklin’s legacy as a polymath and a Founding Father remains untarnished by these findings. Instead, this episode serves as a fascinating footnote in the history of medical science, highlighting the complex interplay between ethics, law, and the pursuit of knowledge.