Benjamin Ferris

Benjamin Ferris was a prominent watchmaker and historian from Wilmington, Delaware, whose contributions to local history and craftsmanship left a lasting impact. Born into a family with deep roots in the region, Ferris was the sixth of seven children and learned the watchmaking trade in Philadelphia at the age of 14. He returned to Wilmington, where he established himself not only as a skilled artisan but also as a civic leader, serving as the city surveyor in 1820. His personal life was marked by his marriage to Fanny Canby, with whom he had ten children, and later to Hannah Gibbons after Fanny's passing. Ferris's historical significance is largely attributed to his work documenting the early history of Delaware. His writings provide valuable insights into the state's development and the lives of its early settlers. Through his meticulous research and dedication to preserving local heritage, Ferris contributed to a greater understanding of Delaware's past, making his work essential for historians and enthusiasts alike. His legacy endures in the records he left behind, which continue to inform and inspire those interested in the history of the region.