Jan 14

Jan 14 Benjamin Mecom's Disappearance - Ben Franklin's Failed Nephew

Apparently I’ve gone on a real ‘Benjamin Franklin’s Family’ kick this week.

Today, we look at one of Franklin’s nephews, Benjamin Mecom.

Mecom was given an opportunity to join the family business, but mental health prevented him from coming anywhere near the success of his famous uncle.

Benjamin Mecom

Though he grew up poor, Benjamin Mecom was fortunate enough to receive an impressive apprenticeship when he hit adulthood.

Mecom was sent to New York City to learn the printing trade at a business which was partially owned by his famous uncle...Benjamin Franklin.

Despite this opportunity, Mecom’s life be plagued with financial and mental health troubles.

Shipping the Press

After completing his apprenticeship, Mecom (known as Benny), borrowed some money and purchased his own press.

He shipped the system to Antigua where he unsuccessfully attempted to establish a new paper.

Mecom returned to the continent and set up his business in New Haven, Connecticut.

Accumulating Debts

Benny still had trouble growing a subscription base and relocated around the colonies several times.

Mecom ended up back in New York where he put his belongings into storage with James Parker. Parker was his uncle’s partner in NYC with whom Benny had originally apprenticed.

Unfortunately, Mecom was unable to pay his debts due to a combination of a lack of work and deteriorating mental health...an issue which seems to have run through his father’s side of the family.

Disappearance

Eventually, Benny was institutionalized in New Jersey.

During the chaos which ensued due to the Battle of Trenton, Mecom was able to escape from his confines.

He disappeared into the night and was never heard from again.

Want more articles about BENJAMIN FRANKLIN?

Check out these fun stories:

Poor Richard’s Hoax - Making Ben Franklin Famous

The French Mourn Franklin - And Hilarity Ensues

5 Strange Facts About Benjamin Franklin

Although James Franklin does not have a biography of his own, he factors heavily into most works about Benjamin.

‘Young Benjamin Franklin’ recounts details about Benjamin’s early life and is a good source of info on James.

If you’d like a copy you can get one through the Amazon affiliate link below (you’ll support this site, but don’t worry, Amazon pays me while your price stays the same).