Famous kite flying spot.

Marker: Where Ben Franklin Flew His Kite

At least a half-dozen sites in the historic district of Philadelphia claim to be the one where, in 1752, Benjamin Franklin flew a kite in a lightning storm to prove his theory of electricity. But for some reason only this one -- which is not among the top candidates according to historians -- had the wisdom to put up a plaque proclaiming it to be the spot.

The plaque is bolted to the outside wall of St. Stephen's Church, which was built on the spot some 50 years later. Whoever put up the plaque has positioned it cleverly beneath a Philadelphia Historical Commission marker, which was put here for the church, not the contested kite-flying claim.

Kite flew here.

Marker: Where Ben Franklin Flew His Kite

St. Stephen's Church

Address:: 19 S. 10th St., Philadelphia, PA
Directions:: St. Stephen's Church. On the east side of S. 10th St. midway between Market and Chestnut Sts. Small Ben Franklin plaque is to the right of the main church entrance, under a larger plaque-sign that recounts the church's history.

Nearby Offbeat Places

Chinatown Friendship Gate, Philadelphia, PA - < 1 mi.

Mural: Building the Giant Lincoln, Philadelphia, PA - < 1 mi.

George Washington Went to the Circus, Philadelphia, PA - < 1 mi.

In the region:

First Flight in America, Deptford, NJ - 8 mi.

More Quirky Attractions in Pennsylvania

Stories, reports and tips on tourist attractions and odd sights in Pennsylvania.

Explore Thousands of Unique Roadside Landmarks!

Strange and amusing destinations in the US and Canada are our specialty. Start here.
Use RoadsideAmerica.com's Attraction Maps to plan your next road trip.