There are a ton of aphorisms attributed to Benjamin Franklin, the most famous Philadelphian in history. But as it turns out, many are apocryphal.
Part of the issue, it seems, is that Ben did say a lot of pithy stuff—and because of that, he gets more credit than is strictly due for witty coinages. (“A sage quote? That was probably Ben Franklin!”) Here are some famous “Ben Franklin quotes” that, while misattributed, are on the money.
“Beer is proof that God loves us and wants us to be happy.”
Not Ben. Still true though.
“Tell me and I forget, teach me and I remember, involve me and I learn.”
Chinese proverb.
“A penny saved is a penny earned.”
Close. He did write “A penny saved is two pence clear.” Not as catchy.
“By failing to prepare, you prepare to fail.”
Smart but not Ben.
Ben or not Ben, these messages of frugality, preparedness, and active learning—not to mention the divine nature of beer—are particularly relevant to the 2026 Craft Brewers Conference (CBC) in Philly. Register for CBC and make Ben Franklin proud.
