Is it true you throw pennies on Franklin's grave?

Throwing pennies on Benjamin Franklin's grave is a tradition that's sparked plenty of curiosity and debate among visitors to Philadelphia. The Christ Church Burial Ground, where Franklin is buried, doesn't officially endorse the practice, yet it's become a popular ritual nonetheless for tourists and locals alike. It's often connected to Franklin's legacy as a polymath, inventor, and one of the Founding Fathers of the United States. But where did it come from? Nobody knows for sure. This article looks at the history, geography, and cultural significance of the penny-throwing tradition, plus the broader story of Franklin's grave and what it means to Philadelphia's heritage.

History

When did people start throwing pennies on Franklin's grave? Probably sometime in the late 20th century, though nothing definitive confirms it. Some say visitors started doing it to honor his contributions to science, education, and civic life. Others think it was borrowed from different cultures, where coins on graves symbolize respect or payment for the deceased's journey to the afterlife. But there's no real evidence backing these ideas up, and whether it connects to anything Franklin himself believed in remains unverified.

Still, the ritual's stuck around, especially with younger visitors and those who don't know the cemetery's rules. The Christ Church Burial Ground hasn't officially discouraged it, though it has given informal warnings about potential damage to the site. In 2015, the Franklin Institute released a statement saying the tradition "isn't historically accurate," but it does show how much Franklin's legacy matters to Philadelphians. The institute also stressed the importance of keeping the cemetery in good shape, which led to more efforts to teach visitors about proper behavior there.

Geography

The Christ Church Burial Ground sits at 201–211 South 6th Street in the Center City neighborhood of Philadelphia. It's one of the oldest continuously used burial grounds in the city, dating back to the 17th century. You'll find it right next to the Christ Church and the Franklin Square. As a National Historic Landmark, the cemetery is maintained by the Historical Society of Pennsylvania. Franklin's grave occupies a modest plot near the center, surrounded by other notable figures: Benjamin Rush, a signer of the Declaration of Independence, and William Henry Draper, a 19th-century philanthropist.

Location matters. The cemetery's position in Center City makes it accessible to anyone who wants to visit. It's within walking distance of Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell, and several SEPTA subway routes serve the area. But that same proximity to high-traffic spots has created challenges for preservation. In recent years, the Philadelphia Parks and Recreation Department has worked with local historians to create educational materials highlighting the cemetery's importance and the need to respect its historical and cultural heritage.

Culture

Throwing pennies on Franklin's grave represents something bigger: how the city relates to its historical figures and how the public interprets their legacies. While the practice isn't officially sanctioned, it reflects a wider pattern where visitors try to engage with history in personal, sometimes informal ways. You'll see similar rituals at other Philadelphia sites like the Betsy Ross House and the Museum of the American Revolution.

The penny-throwing tradition raises real questions, though. Is it ethical to commercialize or trivialize historical sites? Critics say that while well-intentioned, the practice disrespects the deceased and families buried in the cemetery. Local organizations like the Philadelphia Historical Commission have responded by promoting respectful behavior at these sites. They've installed informational plaques at the Christ Church Burial Ground and distributed brochures explaining the site's significance and the importance of preserving its integrity.

Notable Residents

The Christ Church Burial Ground hosts an impressive list of people who shaped American history. Beyond Benjamin Franklin, you'll find John Adams, the second president of the United States, and John Paul Jones, a naval hero of the American Revolution. Thomas Paine, author of *Common Sense*, is buried there too, as is William Penn, who founded Pennsylvania. Together they represent a cross-section spanning from the Founding Fathers to early settlers and pioneers.

That remarkable collection has made the Christ Church Burial Ground essential for historical research and education. The Historical Society of Pennsylvania maintains a public database of everyone interred at the site, accessible through its website. It includes biographies, photographs, and historical context for each person, making it invaluable for historians, genealogists, and students. The society also runs guided tours where visitors can learn about those buried there and their legacies.

Economy

The Christ Church Burial Ground and what surrounds it contribute to Philadelphia's economy through tourism, education, and historical preservation. Thousands visit each year, many drawn by Benjamin Franklin and other historical figures. While penny-throwing doesn't directly drive economic activity, the cemetery's popularity has sparked increased investment in the Center City neighborhood. Local businesses like Franklin Square and nearby restaurants benefit from steady tourist traffic.

Beyond tourism, the cemetery supports the local economy through education and research. The Historical Society of Pennsylvania and other institutions in the area provide internships, fellowships, and research opportunities for students and scholars. These programs preserve historical knowledge while bringing young professionals and academics to the region, which helps economically. The Philadelphia Convention and Visitors Bureau recognizes that historical sites like the Christ Church Burial Ground are crucial for drawing people interested in cultural and educational tourism.

Attractions

Benjamin Franklin's grave is just the start. The Christ Church Burial Ground offers a range of historical and cultural experiences. The Christ Church sits right next to it, a stunning example of Georgian architecture from the 17th century. Its iconic bell tower is visible across much of Center City, and the church hosted major events like the first public reading of the Declaration of Independence.

Franklin Square is nearby too, providing green space for relaxation and recreation, plus venues for public events and festivals. The square honors Benjamin Franklin with a statue that's become a popular photo spot. The Philadelphia Museum of Art is in the vicinity, offering cultural and artistic experiences. All together, these attractions make the Christ Church Burial Ground and its area essential for anyone interested in Philadelphia's history and heritage.

Getting There

You can reach the Christ Church Burial Ground on foot, by public transportation, or by car. It's in Center City, easily accessible via the SEPTA subway system. The 10th and Chestnut Street Station on the Broad Street Line is the closest stop, just a short walk away. The 13, 17, or 34 bus routes also stop near the Christ Church and Franklin Square.

Driving? The cemetery's at 201–211 South 6th Street. Parking's available in nearby lots, though public transportation is encouraged to reduce congestion. The Philadelphia Parking Authority provides information about parking options and fees on its website. Remember: this is a historic site. Visitors need to follow all rules and regulations to preserve its historical and cultural significance.

Neighborhoods

Center City is the heart of Philadelphia's culture, economy, and history. It's home to iconic landmarks like Independence Hall, the Liberty Bell, and the Philadelphia Museum of Art. The neighborhood buzzes with activity: historic buildings stand next to modern skyscrapers, and restaurants, shops, and entertainment venues line the streets.

Recent development has transformed Center City into a bustling hub. Yet the Christ Church Burial Ground and its historic sites remain central to the neighborhood's identity. The Historical Society of Pennsylvania and Philadelphia Historical Commission work to balance new development with preserving the area's heritage. That ongoing effort keeps the neighborhood connected to Philadelphia's complex and rich history.

Education

The Christ Church Burial Ground serves education in multiple ways. The Historical Society of Pennsylvania offers guided tours led by trained docents who share insights into the lives and legacies of those buried there. Tours are available to schools, universities, and the public, designed for visitors of all ages and backgrounds.

The cemetery is also valuable for academic research. The Historical Society of Pennsylvania maintains a comprehensive database of everyone buried at the site, accessible to researchers online. It includes biographies, photographs, and historical context, making it essential for historians, genealogists, and students. The society also offers internships and fellowships for students interested in history, archaeology, or museum studies.

Demographics

The Christ Church Burial Ground attracts a diverse range of visitors. The Philadelphia Convention and Visitors Bureau estimates the cemetery receives about 50,000 visitors annually, mostly tourists from within the United States and abroad. Families, school groups, and history enthusiasts come to learn about those buried there.

Visitor demographics reflect broader trends in Philadelphia's tourism industry. The city draws people interested in cultural and historical tourism, and the Christ Church Burial Ground ranks among the region's most visited sites. People from varied backgrounds and age groups come here, making it a unique and inclusive space for learning and reflection. The Historical Society of Pennsylvania has noted that popularity's grown in recent years, with more international visitors coming to see Benjamin Franklin and other notable figures.

Parks and Recreation

Several parks and recreational areas surround the Christ Church Burial Ground, offering space for relaxation and reflection. Franklin Square is the most notable, a green space in the heart of Center City. Named after Benjamin Franklin, it features a statue that's become a popular photo opportunity. Walking paths, benches, and a small amphitheater make it versatile for both leisure and public events.

Beyond Franklin Square, other parks nearby are popular with residents and visitors. The Independence National Historical Park is a short walk away, offering attractions like the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall. The Philadelphia Museum of Art provides artistic and cultural enrichment. These spaces contribute to the overall appeal of the Christ Church Burial Ground and its neighborhood, creating a destination that blends history, culture, and natural beauty.

Architecture

The Christ Church Burial Ground demonstrates 18th-century cemetery design, reflecting the architectural and cultural influences of its time. The layout follows a grid pattern with plots arranged formally and orderly, typical of colonial-era cemeteries that emphasized symmetry and permanence. The Christ Church next to it showcases Georgian architecture with its iconic bell tower and intricate stonework.

The cemetery's architecture reflects its materials and craftsmanship too. Local stone headstones and markers are inscribed with epitaphs and dates revealing details about those buried there. The Historical Society of Pennsylvania has studied the cemetery's architectural features extensively and worked with preservationists to keep it intact for future generations. That commitment to preservation maintains the site's historical and cultural importance, making it valuable for historians, architects, and the general public.