/And Tripod, being a direct descendant of Ben Franklin is no great rarity. He was rather prolific in at least three countries on two continents. Most of us are related to him through bastard children (as is my case, most certainly). When I was told that we were related to him, (my mother's maiden name was Franklin actually) I was told with a sly sort of wink and an explanation that we were among thousands who had this in common in at least three countries on two different continents. So, it wasn't anything to be puffed up about. It's just an interesting factoid told amongst family members that makes for interesting banter at the occasional cocktail party. It carries with it absolutely no importance to us in our daily lives. We usually laugh about it because Ben Franklin's proclivities toward massive pro-creation are legendary (and true!).