Benjamin Franklin House Literary Prize

The Benjamin Franklin House Literary Prize launches 25 June 2008, endowed by Benjamin Franklin House Chairman John Studzinski, leading banker and philanthropist. According to Studzinski, "Benjamin Franklin is one of history's great figures. While he made lasting contributions in many fields, his first passion was writing. He believed in the power of the written word to inform and stimulate debate as the bedrock of a democratic society."

Each year a question exploring Franklin's relevance in our time will be open for interpretation in 1000-1500 words by two groups: young people and professional writers. The winner of the Young Writers Prize will receive £500 while the winner of the Professional Writers Prize will receive £1000 plus publication in a leading British newspaper. Entries for 2008 must be received before 15 October. Judges of the young people's award will include professional writers; judges of the professional writers' award will include young people. Winning submissions will be posted at www.BenjaminFranklinHouse.org

For nearly sixteen years between 1757 and 1775, Franklin lived at 36 Craven Street in the heart of London, England. He is one of history’s great polymaths – a diplomat, patriot, scientist, inventor, philosopher and more. He was one of the first American journalists, writing prolifically not only on politics and foreign affairs, but on science, the arts and humanity. In 2006 his Georgian home opened to the public for the first time as a dynamic museum and educational facility. See www.BenjaminFranklinHouse.org

2008 Theme

What is ethical journalism? Benjamin Franklin said the effects of the written word (delivered by press in his day – in ours by a variety of media) "are more extensive, more lasting." What are journalists' responsibilities and why?

Submissions


Entries of 1000-1500 words must be sent by 15 October to info@benjaminfranklinhouse.org. Each entrant is asked to provide their name, address, and telephone number. In addition, entrants for the Young Writers Award should provide their age and place of study, if applicable, while entrants for the Professional Writers Award should provide a CV.

Entries can be articles or essays published over the preceding year. For more information contact Alice Kershaw at Benjamin Franklin House, 020 7839 2006 or email info@BenjaminFranklinHouse.org.

Download the press release in PDF format