Benjamin Franklin was an American polymath: a 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.
Jean-Baptiste Bonnefoy writes to Benjamin Franklin in 1783 praising his invention of the lightning rod and expressing hope for America's future prosperity and freedom. Bonnefoy, a member of the Lyon College of Surgery, proposes a plan to advance American surgical practice to near perfection within twelve years. He seeks Franklin's support for this medical initiative in the newly independent United States.
Anna Barbara Krystyna Estkowa appeals to Benjamin Franklin to verify the existence of her brother, Thaddeus Kosciuszko, who served the United States and has been absent without news, to prevent creditors from seizing his lands in Lithuania. She requests an official certificate confirming his status to protect his estate from wrongful claims. The letter includes a supporting excerpt from a Paris correspondence affirming Kosciuszko's existence.
Joseph-Jérôme Le Français de Lalande thanks Benjamin Franklin for sharing his observations of a new comet and promises to present them to the academy. Lalande expresses personal gratitude for Franklin’s recognition and friendship, praising Franklin’s contributions to humanity.
London 19th Decem 1783 Ormond Street Mr. & Mrs. Sargent present Their most affectionate Compliments to Dr. Franklin, & being acquainted by Monsr. Charettier, 7 the Gentleman Mr. S. introduced…
Louis-Philippe de Rigaud, marquis de Vaudreuil, recommends M. Pacaud for the position of United States Consul in the French colony of Saint-Domingue, emphasizing Pacaud's valuable assistance to American merchants during the recent war. He urges Benjamin Franklin to forward the recommendation to the Continental Congress. Vaudreuil expresses personal support and gratitude for any assistance Franklin can provide.
Samuel Chase writes to Benjamin Franklin seeking confirmation that his previous letters, which included requests for advice on a lost ship incident and a personal matter involving a young woman from Annapolis, have been received safely. He updates Franklin on the recent political changes in Britain, noting the dismissal of the former ministry and the appointment of Mr. Pitt as prime minister. Chase expresses his respect and hopes for Franklin's well-being.
John Paul Jones acknowledges Benjamin Franklin's invitation and confirms his attendance at a dinner on December 25, 1783, in Paris. The letter reflects the cordial relationship between the American naval hero and the diplomat during the post-Revolutionary War period.
Jonathan Sr Williams informs Benjamin Franklin about difficulties in collecting a bill for expenses related to Franklin's grandson's education, as Dr. Cooper is critically ill and the father is unreliable. He explains the financial arrangements made with family members and mentions a property near Cambridge that might interest Franklin for residence.
David Hartley informs Benjamin Franklin of a recent change in the British government and requests immediate notification upon the ratification of the peace treaty from America. He emphasizes the importance of promptly finalizing the treaty to conclude the conflict. Hartley expresses his anticipation of further instructions in his diplomatic role.
Baron de Breteuil responds to Benjamin Franklin's request on behalf of the family of a prisoner named Schaffer, detained in La Conciergerie, stating he will contact M. Lenoir to seek permission for Schaffer’s transfer to the colonies. He explains that no one is forcibly sent to the colonies anymore and that once ordinary courts handle a case, royal authority cannot intervene unless judges agree to halt proceedings.
A Versailles le 26. Xbre. 1783 Permettez-vous, Monsieur, que je vous recommande le paquet ci-joint. Je Supose que la fregate le Washington 9 n’est pas encore parti. Un de mes…
John Jay writes to Benjamin Franklin expressing concern about Franklin's reported illness and seeking confirmation of his health. He refrains from discussing politics, acknowledging Franklin's expertise and the divided opinions about him in America. Jay conveys respect and affection, promising to discuss political matters more openly in person.
Jérôme-Marie Champion de Cicé writes to Benjamin Franklin expressing support for American Catholics and the Abbé de la Roche, while requesting clarification on how Catholic services are currently conducted, the source of priests' authority, and how clergy are financially supported. He seeks this information to better propose future plans for the Catholic community in America.
Frédéric-Samuel Ostervald writes to Benjamin Franklin in 1784 to express respect and to inquire whether Franklin's library has received the latest volumes of Ostervald's Descriptions des Arts et Métiers, which may have been delayed due to border restrictions on foreign books. Ostervald offers to send any missing volumes directly to Franklin, confident that a package addressed to him will bypass obstacles.
Jean-Antoine Houdon invites Benjamin Franklin to witness the casting of a bronze statue on January 24, 1784, at eleven in the morning. Houdon expresses hope that the event will interest Franklin's taste and curiosity.
Bache and Shee express gratitude to Benjamin Franklin for his support in protecting their mercantile interests, particularly his intervention in preventing the return of a bill drawn on Mr. Williams. They enclose drafts totaling 25,000 livres drawn on Le Couteulx & Co. in Paris, anticipating reimbursement related to an insurance claim on a lost vessel. They assure Franklin of their commitment to maintaining his confidence and prompt repayment if necessary.
paris 2. jv. 1784. rue des gravilliers. Monsieur Jai l’honneur de vous adresser le memoire de M. morel de dunkerque 2 duquel jai eu celui de vous parler chez M…
César-François Cassini de Thury requests Benjamin Franklin to consider awarding the Order of Cincinnatus to his brother-in-law, the Vicomte de Mory, in recognition of his military service during the American Revolution. He emphasizes de Mory's participation in multiple campaigns, sieges, and battles, arguing that this honor would bring great pride to their family and strengthen ties between France and the United States.
Jan Ingenhousz writes to Benjamin Franklin in 1784 seeking detailed information on the construction and management of air balloons, referencing recent aerial navigation developments. He mentions plans to build a balloon in Vienna and sends a young natural philosopher to Paris to learn about ballooning firsthand. Ingenhousz requests Franklin's assistance in obtaining knowledge from key figures like Montgolfier and Pilatre de Rozier to support their project.
Gabriel-Louis Galissard de Marignac expresses deep gratitude to Benjamin Franklin for his kindness and satisfaction with Bache. He assures Franklin of his lasting respect and best wishes for his happiness and honorable life. Marignac pledges to respond promptly to Franklin's latest act of kindness.
John Shaffer appeals to Benjamin Franklin for continued support in resolving his legal troubles in France, requesting Franklin to write to key officials to aid his cause. He expresses deep gratitude for Franklin's previous assistance and seeks a meeting through an intermediary to discuss the matter further. Shaffer relies on Franklin as his primary protector in navigating these difficulties.
Jean-Jacques de Lafreté writes to Benjamin Franklin expressing personal sorrow and plans to visit him soon. He requests a letter of recommendation from Franklin for his friend Philippe Aribert, who seeks to become the American consul in a Languedoc port. Lafreté assures Franklin that Aribert is a capable and deserving candidate.
Maupin presents Benjamin Franklin with a book outlining a new, simpler, and more economical method for planting and cultivating vines, along with improved techniques for wine fermentation that enhance quality and longevity. He emphasizes that these innovations benefit both Europe and America, appealing to Franklin as a statesman representing the New World. Maupin frames his work as contributing to progress in both the established Old World and the developing New World.
Antoine-Alexis-François Cadet de Vaux informs Benjamin Franklin that corn flour has arrived in Paris. He offers to send the flour to Franklin in Passy using the same carriage that delivers water. The letter serves as a courteous notification and proposal for delivery.