Saturday, November 22, 2008

Franklin vs. Willett: Battle Royale 16th Century


Things Invented by Ben Franklin according to actual 3rd Graders:
Electricity
Light Bulb
Kites
Candles

Things He Really Invented:
Odometer
Franklin Stove, Flexible Catheter
Lightning Rod
Glass Armonica (Harmonica) 
Swim Fins
3-Wheel-Clock (Only had an hour hand, "Economical, but not quite practical" according to Franklin biographer Carl Van Doren)
                                 Library Chair/Step Stool (right)
Long Reach Device aka Grabber (Left)
Magic Squares (precursor to Sudoku?)

Services Established:
Street Lights
Paved Roads
Post Office
Fire Company
Insurance
                                 Library Company

Note: On this Ben Franklin FAQ (actual name) one FAQ is:
"Do I have Ben's Signature?
Franklin never identified himself as 'Ben.' His signature was 'B. Franklin.' To authenticate Franklin's signature you should contact the American Philosophical Society, Independence Natioal Historical Park, or The Library Company. All of these institutions are located in Philadelphia.

Things actual 3rd Graders Say About William Willett:
"Who?"

Things William Willett Invented:
"Daylight Savings Time"

I think the winner is clear.

No comments: