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Ralph Archbold is a Philadelphia-area speaker best known for his impersonation of U.S. Founding Father Benjamin Franklin.

Contents

Franklin impersonation

Archbold began impersonating Franklin in 1973 for a local summer production in Dearborn, Michigan.[1][2] He enjoyed the role so much he read over 200 of Franklin's books, and realized that he was born on Franklin's birthday, January 17.[1] He began performing at schools full time, and in 1981 moved to Philadelphia to continue his impersonation in Franklin's home city where demand was higher. He currently gives frequent speeches for company meetings, and is regularly seen sitting on a park bench in Franklin Court.[1]

He has been declared the official Benjamin Franklin for the city of Philadelphia, and has been awarded Philadelphia magazine's Best of Philly Award.[3] His photo appears frequently in tourist literature and brochures.[1] He has also appeared on television, including Today,[3] The History Channel,[4] and The Colbert Report.[5] He has also been featured at the Philadelphia celebration "200 Years of Benjamin Franklin's Genius", appeared for every President of the United States since Gerald Ford,[1] and was appointed by George W. Bush to a 15-member commission to oversee the celebration of Franklin's 300th birthday.[6]

Archbold, like Franklin, is balding and requires the use of bifocals and cane.[1] He wears period clothing, including a frilly shirt, a vest, and shoes with buckles, making his appearance historically accurate.[1]

Personal life

On July 3, 2008 Archbold married Linda Wilde, a historical impersonator known for playing Betsy Ross.[2] The wedding was held in front of Independence Hall, entirely in costume,[2] with Philadelphia Mayor Michael Nutter officiating.[7]

References

  1. ^ a b c d e f g Stein, Joel (2003-06-29). "All About the Benjamin", TIME. Retrieved on 2008-07-07. 
  2. ^ a b c Todt, Ron (2008-07-04). "Ben Franklin, Betsy Ross actors wed in Philly", Yahoo News. Retrieved on 2008-07-07. 
  3. ^ a b "Ralph Archbold". 21st Century Speakers. Retrieved on 2008-07-07.
  4. ^ "Ralph Archbold as Benjamin Franklin". Retrieved on 2008-07-07.
  5. ^ Davis, Heather A. (2008-04-24). "'Truthiness' at Penn", Penn Current, The University of Pennsylvania. Retrieved on 2008-07-07. 
  6. ^ "Entertainment in Celebration of the 300th Anniversary of Benjamin Franklin's Birth". The Office of the First Lady. White House (2006-03-23). Retrieved on 2008-07-07.
  7. ^ Pompilio, Natalie (2008-07-03). "Ben and Betsy tie the knot", Philadelphia Inquirer. Retrieved on 2008-07-07. 

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