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New Book on the Franklins to be Discussed at ‘The Scene of The Crime’

Press Release 6/17

The Loyal Son by Danial Mark Epstein

PERTH AMBOY –  Proprietary House in Perth Amboy will present “An Evening with Daniel Mark Epstein,” at 7 PM on Friday, June 30th. Mr. Epstein’s new book, “The Loyal Son, the War in Ben Franklin’s House,” examines the complex relationship between Ben Franklin and his son, William, New Jersey’s last royal governor. A fresh take on the combustible politics of the times, “The Loyal Son” is a gripping account of how the Revolution devastated one of America’s most distinguished families.

Proprietary House’s June 30th book reading/signing with the award-winning author will take place at “the scene of the crime,” so to speak.  Mr. Epstein is set to discuss aspects of his new book in the drawing room of the historic royal governor’s mansion – the very place where the Founding Father and his Loyalist son tragically parted ways over the question of American independence.  It also was the scene of the royal governor’s arrest as a traitor by Patriot forces on June 19th, 1776.  That marked the loss of King George III’s last toehold for governing in his 13 American colonies – two weeks before independence was officially declared in Philadelphia!

Proprietary House and other Perth Amboy historic sites witnessed some milestone events in the lives of the Franklins.  But the one-time colonial capital of New Jersey also has some contemporary connections to “The Loyal Son.”  Appearing on the book’s jacket cover is Proprietary House’s portrait of William Franklin.  The museum’s oil-on-canvas portrait was painted and donated by Perth Amboy artist Danuta Wyszynski and is a copy of the c. 1790 original, which is attributed to Mather Brown.

ADMISSION IS FREE, but attendees are asked to register in advance to ensure seating. Light refreshments will be served.  Following his readings and discussion, Mr. Epstein will meet members of the audience and sign copies of “The Loyal Son,” which will be available for purchase.  Proceeds of the evening’s book sales will go toward restoration of Proprietary House and operation of its museum.

Proprietary House is owned by the State of New Jersey, and its museum is operated by the Proprietary House Association.  The museum is located at 149 Kearny Avenue, Perth Amboy, NJ, 08861.  To register for this event, contact Proprietary House Association – by phone at (732) 826-5527;  or by E-mail at info@theproprietaryhouse.org.

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