Ben Franklin living history interpreter to visit Beaufort on July 1 in celebration of Carolina Days and America’s 250th birthday
Living history returns to Beaufort on July 1st as renowned Shakespearean actor and historian GregRobin Smith visits in his capacity as Benjamin Franklin in celebration of Carolina Days and the signing of the Declaration of Independence.
Events are scheduled throughout Beaufort County for Smith’s appearance and a complete list is available at https://beaufort250.com/ben-franklin/.
Smith has been presenting programs on, and as, Dr Benjamin Franklin since 2001. He’s also an accomplished public speaker and a musician, and he frequently dresses and performs in the character of Benjamin Franklin for organizations across the country.
A community-wide dedication and celebration is scheduled for 2 p.m. July 1, in the Henry C. Chambers Waterfront Park. Hosted by the City of Beaufort, Historic Beaufort Foundation, the Beaufort County 250th, and the Governor Paul Hamilton Chapter of the Sons of the American Revolution, the event is called Putting Down the Roots of Liberty.
It will feature Smith as “Benjamin Franklin” for a living history presentation and the ceremonial planting of a descendent of the historic Liberty Tree sapling. There is no charge for this community event. Rain location will be in the pavilion.
“The planting of the Liberty Tree on July 1, in Henry C. Chambers Waterfront Park is a powerful reminder of Beaufort’s connection to the ideals of freedom, self-government, and civic engagement that helped shape our nation,” Beaufort Mayor Phil Cromer said.
“As a living descendant of the historic Liberty Trees that served as gathering places during the American Revolution, it serves as a symbol of our shared heritage while creating a lasting legacy for future generations as Beaufort commemorates America’s 250th anniversary,” Cromer said.
At 6:15 p.m. July 1, Historic Beaufort Foundation will host A Dialog Across Centuries as GregRobin Smith as Benjamin Franklin and historians Dr. John McCardell and Dr. Larry Rowland hold a stimulating conversation about the origins of the American Revolution.
The event will be held at the Parish Hall of St. Helena Anglican Church in historic Beaufort. Tickets are $40 per person and can be purchased online at www.historicbeaufort.org at the Roots of Liberty link at the top of the website homepage.
“Beaufort has been fortunate to have nationally-known living history interpreters to help us celebrate and commemorate our nation’s history, first with Mark Schneider during the 2025 celebration of the 200th Anniversary of the Marquis de Lafayette’s visit, and now, GregRobin Smith, joining us as American hero Benjamin Franklin,” said Lise Sundrla, Historic Beaufort Foundation’s executive director.
“We invite the community to come out for the dedication and celebration. And, we encourage families to bring their children, as we honor our nation’s 250th birthday in one of America’s oldest towns,” she said.
Smith will be in Beaufort on July 1. He arrives June 30 and the Rhett House Inn is graciously providing lodging during this two-day stay. Several events are scheduled throughout the day with “Mr. Franklin” as special guest. Full details and online reservations are available online at https://beaufort250.com/ben-franklin/.
