True to His Home: A Tale of the Boyhood of Franklin

In Short

True to His Home is a historical fiction novel by Hezekiah Butterworth that chronicles the formative years of Benjamin Franklin, blending biographical details with imaginative storytelling. Set in colonial Boston, the narrative follows young Ben's journey from his father's candle-making shop to his apprenticeship, capturing his curiosity, resilience, and growing sense of purpose. The book highlights Franklin's early influences, his struggles against societal expectations, and his emergence as a thinker and writer. Through vivid scenes and character interactions, Butterworth portrays Franklin's boyhood as a crucible for the virtues that would later define his public life. The novel has endured as a charming and instructive portrait of one of America's founding fathers, offering readers a glimpse into the making of a remarkable individual.

The Story

The novel opens with young Benjamin Franklin in his father's candle-making shop in Boston, where he displays an early curiosity and a penchant for questioning authority. Ben's brother Josiah has run away to sea, a decision that weighs heavily on their father, who worries about the boy's future. Ben, too, feels the pull of adventure but is grounded by his family's expectations and his own sense of duty. His uncle, a poet and philosopher, becomes a key influence, encouraging Ben's intellectual pursuits and instilling in him a love of learning and a commitment to virtue.

As Ben grows, he faces challenges that test his character. He is often misunderstood by his peers and family, who view his inquisitive nature as troublesome. His attempts to improve the town's infrastructure, such as paving streets and installing lamps, are met with skepticism and ridicule. Despite these setbacks, Ben remains steadfast in his principles, guided by his uncle's teachings and his own moral compass.

A turning point comes when Ben is apprenticed to his brother James, a printer. Here, he discovers his passion for writing and publishing, contributing anonymously to James's newspaper under the pseudonym Silence Dogood. His essays, filled with wit and wisdom, gain popularity, but his identity remains a secret. This period marks the beginning of Ben's public life, as he begins to shape his ideas about society, justice, and the power of the written word.

The novel follows Ben's journey to Philadelphia, where he seeks greater opportunities. He faces hardship and self-doubt but remains true to his values, refusing to compromise his integrity for financial gain. His encounters with various characters, from a kind landlady to a corrupt patron, deepen his understanding of human nature and reinforce his commitment to honesty and fairness.

As the story progresses, Ben's reputation grows, and he becomes a respected figure in Philadelphia. He establishes himself as a printer, writer, and inventor, laying the groundwork for his future achievements. The novel concludes with Ben's return to Boston, where he reflects on his journey and the lessons he has learned. He visits his widowed mother, now nearly blind, and reconnects with his roots, reaffirming his dedication to his family and his principles.

The final chapters highlight Ben's contributions to science, literature, and public service, foreshadowing his role in the American Revolution and his legacy as a statesman. The novel ends with a sense of fulfillment, as Ben Franklin emerges not just as a historical figure but as a man shaped by his early experiences and guided by a lifelong commitment to virtue and the common good.

How It Unfolds

The Franklin household: The story begins in the Franklin home, where young Ben's curiosity and independence are evident. His father, Josiah, worries about Ben's future, especially after his brother Josiah runs away to sea. Ben's early life is marked by a mix of family expectations and his own desire for adventure and learning.

Uncle Ben's influence: Ben's uncle, a poet and philosopher, becomes a pivotal figure. He encourages Ben's intellectual pursuits, teaching him the value of virtue, diligence, and self-improvement. Their conversations lay the foundation for Ben's moral and intellectual development.

Apprenticeship struggles: Ben is apprenticed to his brother James, a printer, where he faces challenges and learns the craft of writing and publishing. His contributions as Silence Dogood gain him recognition, but he also encounters jealousy and conflict within the family.

Philadelphia bound: Seeking greater opportunities, Ben travels to Philadelphia, where he faces hardship and self-doubt. He works odd jobs, including as a printer's assistant, and begins to establish himself in the city. His integrity is tested, but he remains true to his principles.

Rising reputation: In Philadelphia, Ben's reputation as a writer and inventor grows. He founds a literary club, publishes his own newspaper, and becomes a respected figure in the community. His scientific experiments, particularly with electricity, begin to attract attention.

Return to Boston: The novel concludes with Ben's return to Boston, where he reflects on his journey and reconnects with his family. He visits his mother, now nearly blind, and reaffirms his commitment to his roots and his principles.

The People

Benjamin Franklin: The protagonist, Ben is curious, resilient, and principled. He seeks to improve himself and the world around him, often facing misunderstanding and adversity. His journey from a boy in Boston to a respected figure in Philadelphia is marked by his commitment to virtue and his passion for learning.

Josiah Franklin: Ben's father, a candle-maker, is a pragmatic and worried man. He loves his children but struggles to understand Ben's unconventional interests. His concerns about Ben's future reflect the societal expectations of the time.

Uncle Ben: A poet and philosopher, Uncle Ben is a mentor and inspiration to young Ben. He encourages Ben's intellectual pursuits and instills in him a love of learning and a commitment to virtue. His influence shapes Ben's character and worldview.

James Franklin: Ben's brother and employer, James is a printer who takes Ben on as an apprentice. While he recognizes Ben's talent, he is also jealous of his success and treats him harshly at times. Their relationship is complex, marked by both collaboration and conflict.

Abiah Franklin: Ben's mother, Abiah is a quiet and supportive presence in his life. Her love and patience provide a stable foundation for Ben, even as he faces challenges and uncertainty.

Deborah Read: Ben's future wife, Deborah is introduced as a kind and practical woman. Their relationship develops slowly, grounded in mutual respect and affection. Deborah's support becomes a source of strength for Ben as he navigates his early career.

In Its Own Voice

"I am sorry to say, sir, that I think the article is scurrilous and defamatory. But I have been at a loss, on account of my poverty, whether to reject it or not. I therefore put it to this issue. At night, when my work was done, I bought a twopenny loaf, on which I supped heartily, and then wrapping myself in my greatcoat slept very soundly on the floor until morning, when another loaf and a mug of water afforded a pleasant breakfast. Now, sir, since I can live very comfortably in this manner, why should I prostitute my press to personal hatred or party passion for a more luxurious living?" —Ben Franklin, explaining his refusal to publish a defamatory article, despite his financial struggles.

"You are wrong, sir. The opportunity to produce fables is limitless. Almost every event offers the fabric of a fable." —Dr. Franklin, responding to a literary gentleman who claims the art of fable-writing is exhausted.

What It's Really About

At its core, True to His Home is about the making of a remarkable individual through the interplay of personal virtue, intellectual curiosity, and societal influence. The novel explores themes of integrity, resilience, and the power of education. Franklin's journey from a boy in a candle-making shop to a respected writer and inventor highlights the importance of staying true to one's principles, even in the face of adversity. The book also delves into the role of mentors and family in shaping character, emphasizing the impact of Uncle Ben's guidance and the support of Franklin's mother and future wife. Ultimately, the novel is a testament to the idea that greatness is forged in the everyday struggles and choices of life, and that a commitment to virtue and learning can lead to extraordinary achievements.

Why Read It Today

True to His Home offers a charming and instructive glimpse into the boyhood of one of America's most celebrated figures. Readers who enjoy historical fiction, particularly stories of personal growth and intellectual development, will find much to appreciate. The novel's portrayal of colonial Boston and Philadelphia provides a vivid backdrop for Franklin's journey, making it an engaging read for history enthusiasts. While the language and pacing may feel dated to modern readers, the story's emphasis on integrity, curiosity, and perseverance remains timeless. The book is particularly appealing for its blend of fact and fiction, offering a humanizing portrait of Benjamin Franklin that goes beyond the historical record. It is a reminder of the power of individual effort and the enduring impact of a life lived with purpose and principle.