Introduction
William Franklin, the acknowledged extra-marital son of Benjamin Franklin, traversed a complex path during the American Revolutionary War. Born on February 22, 1730, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, his life unfolded against the backdrop of political turmoil. Let us explore the enigma of William Franklin and the circumstances surrounding his final days.
Origins and Upbringing
William’s parentage remains shrouded in mystery. Benjamin Franklin, a prominent figure in Philadelphia, kept his son’s origins veiled. Raised by his father and Deborah Read, his father’s common-law wife, William always referred to her as his mother. The exact identity of his biological mother remains uncertain, with speculation suggesting that Deborah Read herself might have been the one. Regardless, William’s upbringing was intertwined with the legacy of Benjamin Franklin.
Governorship and Loyalism
William Franklin’s political journey led him to become the last colonial Governor of New Jersey (1763–1776). While his father, Benjamin, emerged as a Patriot leader during the American Revolution, William staunchly remained a Loyalist. His loyalty to the British Crown persisted even during his imprisonment by Patriots from 1776 to 1778. From his base in New York City, he organized Loyalist military units, standing in stark contrast to his father’s revolutionary fervor.
Exile and Legacy
In 1782, William Franklin sought refuge in Britain, where he spent the remainder of his life. His unwavering loyalty to the Crown led him away from American soil. He settled in London, far from the tumultuous events unfolding across the Atlantic. On November 17, 1813, at the age of 83, William Franklin breathed his last, leaving behind a legacy that intertwined with both loyalty and estrangement.
