Governor Ron DeSantis honors Constitution Day by unveiling a new Benjamin Franklin statue in Franklin County during Florida’s America250 celebrations
Apalachicola, Florida – In a historic celebration marking the 238th anniversary of the signing of the U.S. Constitution, Governor Ron DeSantis unveiled a statue of Benjamin Franklin in Franklin County, Florida, honoring one of the nation’s most influential founding fathers. The event, held in the heart of the county named after Franklin himself, is part of Florida’s ongoing America250 commemoration, a statewide series celebrating the 250th anniversary of American independence.
“Benjamin Franklin was an American original,” said Governor DeSantis during the unveiling. “We as Americans are fortunate to have had a man like Franklin playing such a big role in the founding of our nation. As we prepare to celebrate our nation’s 250th anniversary next July, we must remember the vision, courage, and unyielding quest for liberty that inspired our founders. Statues like this symbolize our firm resolve to uphold the Constitution, to honor the legacy of our founders, and to embody the values of our nation’s founding.”
The Governor emphasized Franklin’s enduring legacy as a statesman, inventor, and civic leader, highlighting the importance of preserving history and ensuring that future generations understand the principles upon which the United States was founded. The statue serves as a tangible reminder of Franklin’s contributions, from drafting foundational documents to advocating for civic responsibility and education.
Lieutenant Governor Jay Collins also attended the ceremony, noting the continued relevance of Franklin’s life and work. “It is a privilege to stand in Franklin County on Constitution Day as we honor Benjamin Franklin—a man whose wisdom, courage, and vision still shape America nearly 250 years after our founding,” Collins said. “Here in Florida, we take pride in our constitutional legacy, rooted in independence and self-determination. Franklin’s life reminds us that freedom is not inherited by chance but secured through civic responsibility and service. While some may seek to erase history, Florida chooses to honor it, ensuring future generations know both their rights and their duty to preserve our republic.”
This unveiling is the second in a planned series of statues across Florida counties named for America’s founding fathers. The initiative will see additional statues installed in Washington, Hamilton, Madison, and Monroe Counties over the coming year. Earlier this year, a statue of Thomas Jefferson was unveiled in Jefferson County, signaling the state’s commitment to honoring the visionaries who shaped the nation.
Governor DeSantis underscored Franklin’s embodiment of American ingenuity and civic virtue, stressing that his dedication to public service and education remains a model for contemporary society. “An engaged and educated citizenry is the cornerstone of liberty in our republican system of government,” DeSantis said, reiterating the state’s focus on civic education as a tool for sustaining democratic values.
Under DeSantis’ leadership, Florida has made historic investments in programs that enhance civic literacy across all grade levels. The Civics Literacy Excellence Initiative, launched in 2021, is a $129 million program supporting teachers and students statewide. It has expanded civics curriculum in schools and created the Civics Seal of Excellence Endorsement for teachers. To date, more than 21,000 teachers have participated, with thousands more on a waitlist, while the state has awarded nearly $60 million in teacher stipends to recognize their contributions.
This year’s Florida budget, signed by DeSantis for Fiscal Year 2025-26, includes an additional $7.4 million to further expand civic literacy and debate programs, reinforcing the state’s commitment to ensuring students understand the history, principles, and responsibilities of citizenship.
The Benjamin Franklin statue in Franklin County symbolizes not only a celebration of the nation’s founding but also a reminder of the importance of civic engagement, historical awareness, and educational investment. As Florida continues its yearlong America250 observances, residents and students alike are encouraged to participate in programs, events, and activities that honor the nation’s history and inspire future leaders.
For more information about Florida’s America250 celebrations and related opportunities, visit America250FL.com. The unveiling in Franklin County is a part of the state’s broader mission to commemorate the founding of the United States while fostering a deeper understanding of civic duty, constitutional principles, and the enduring legacy of leaders like Benjamin Franklin.
The event drew attention from community leaders, educators, and residents, highlighting the collective effort to honor the nation’s founding ideals and to ensure that the lessons of history continue to resonate for generations to come.
