American Toby Jug Museum 

Benjamin Franklin toby jug produced by Ashtead Potteries of Surrey, England, circa 1930. Benjamin Franklin (1706-1790) was born in Boston, Massachusetts. This renowned American scientist, inventor and statesman started his career as a printer and journalist. In 1752 he demonstrated that lightening was a form of electricity by flying a kite in a thunderstorm with a key attached, from which he obtained sparks, leading to his invention of the lightening conductor. He also invented the Franklin stove, bi-focal glasses and a glass harmonica. An original leader of the colonial revolution, Franklin was an active participant in the deliberations resulting in the Declaration of Independence in 1776. He also helped frame the United States Constitution. As his country's first minister to France, he ingratiated the French people to the fledgling America's cause and negotiated the peace with Great Britain. Franklin is holding the Liberty Bell in his lap. This is jug number 77 of the limited edition.