American Philosophical Society
The American Philosophical Society (APS) is an American scholarly organization and learned society founded in 1743 in Philadelphia that promotes knowledge in the humanities and natural sciences through research, professional meetings, publications, library resources, and community outreach. It was founded by Benjamin Franklin and is considered the first learned society in the United States.
Philosophical Hall, the headquarters of the American Philosophical Society in Philadelphia
Library Hall in 2024
Thomas Jefferson Garden adjacent to Library Hall
Franklin Hall at the American Philosophical Hall, named for Benjamin Franklin, the organization's founder
Benjamin Franklin was an American polymath, a leading writer, scientist, inventor, statesman, diplomat, printer, publisher, and political philosopher. Among the most influential intellectuals of his time, Franklin was one of the Founding Fathers of the United States; a drafter and signer of the Declaration of Independence; and the first postmaster general.
Portrait by Joseph Duplessis, 1778
An 1881 illustration of Franklin's birthplace on Milk Street in Boston
A May 2008 photograph of Franklin's birthplace in Boston, commemorated with a bust of Franklin atop the building's second-floor façade
La scuola della economia e della morale, an 1825 sketch of Franklin