Benjamin Franklin re-enactor dies at 75
PHILADELPHIA (AP) – A popular re-enactor who portrayed Benjamin Franklin in Philadelphia for more than 40 years and married a woman who portrays Betsy Ross died.
The Alleva Funeral Home in Paoli confirmed Ralph Archbold died March 25. He had turned 75 January 17th, a birthday he shared with Franklin.
Archbold was a frequent fixture in the city’s historic area and took his homage to Franklin to events around the world.
He and Linda Wilde married in costume at Independence Hall July 3, 2008.
A family statement lists two sons, two daughters and a stepdaughter among his other survivors.
A funeral home spokesman says the services held for Archbold were private.