Yeoman's in the Fork Blog

Recently I had a great friend of mine, who I had not seen in a number of years, come into town to pay a visit. We had lunch and I suggested to him that he come out and see our store in Leiper's Fork before he left. So, the next day, as I was working at the shop, my friend stopped by and was very impressed with what he saw. I think he was most awestruck by our Benjamin Franklin bench that sits out on the lawn. Who could blame him? It is perfect for those that want to spend some time reflecting and take in a lazy day here in The Fork. Like many others, he was curious as to why we chose to have a bronze sculpture of Benjamin Franklin on a park bench in our front yard. So for those of you who may also be curious there are three great reasons. The first is that Benjamin Franklin represents what we are passionate about here at Yeoman's! We strive to preserve the history and the memory of the founding fathers and to keep alive their ideals to future generations. Secondly, Benjamin Franklin is the namesake of the great city of Franklin, Tennessee, of which we are a part! Thirdly, it is just a stunning work of art and it is our hope that each person who visits our store will enjoy the bench and even take their picture with a founding father! My friend's curiosity also caused me to remember the many others who have asked questions and made very complimentary comments about the sculpture. So, for those who have asked, "How much does your Ben Franklin weigh?" "Why does he have a key in his hand?" "What book is on his lap?" or "What is his foot resting on?" I think it would be appropriate to share with you the words of the artist himself, Gary Lee Price. What follows is the words of Mr. Price about his creation:

It was with great anticipation that I added Benjamin Franklin (1706-1790), America’s greatest Folk Hero, to my “Great Contributor” series. He is without a doubt one of the most remarkable men in history and certainly the most famous symbol of America’s rustic democracy and innovativeness. Retiring financially at the age of 42 he was rapidly becoming an international celebrity, already famous for his contributions to science and printing. He later said of all of his accomplishments he wanted to be known as a printer. Aptly so, I created Ben wearing one of his most famous inventions, bifocals, along with a copy of his Poor Richards Almanac on his knee. In his left hand he holds a key, symbolic not only of his significance in America’s independence and founding but of opening doors in so many aspects of every day life. His was a life of great service evidenced in his “giving” of the lightening rod to humanity- just because he saw a problem, used his ingenuity and solved it. His foot rests upon a document container representing his super-involvement in the politics and negotiations of the times. His ambassadorship to France was vital to our country’s very existence.

I invite you to come, sit and take short respite with this amazing man. Perhaps ponder his contemplative smile and consider his approach to life along with his wit, wisdom and humor.

And for those of you still curious, Ben weighs 475lbs. Be sure to come by and see us (and Ben) soon!