Franklin & Hillsborough: Six Days of Dialogue, Centuries of Consequence

In celebration of America 250, the Irish Georgian Society and Historic Royal Palaces will explore Benjamin Franklin’s visit to Hillsborough Castle in 1771, just four years before the American Revolutionary War. Franklin was hosted by Wills Hill, the 1st Earl of Hillsborough, who served as the Secretary of State to the Colonies, giving him control over the management of the American colonies. The two were bitter political rivals given their direct oppositional views on America resulting in an interesting encounter. The panel will explore this monumental visit as well as how Franklin’s ideas and legacy continue to shape US identity and civic life today.

Panel Guests:

David Orr, Head of Collections at Hillsborough Castle

Matthew Skic, Director of Collections & Exhibitions at the Museum of the American Revolution

Andrew Trees, Historian and Author

Moderated by Steve Zick, former Vice Chair of the Irish Georgian Society

Schedule:
5:00p.m. — Drinks reception

5:30p.m. — Panel Discussion

Please email info@irishgeorgiansociety.com to reserve your place at this event.