For America's 250th anniversary, who was the oldest signer of the United States Constitution?

Benjamin Franklin was the oldest signer of the United States Constitution.

Franklin was 81 when he signed the Constitution on September 17, 1787. He was a Pennsylvania delegate and one of the most internationally famous Americans of his era, having worked as a printer, scientist, inventor, diplomat, and political leader.

Franklin's age made his participation notable, especially because the convention met through a long, demanding summer in Philadelphia. He sometimes needed assistance walking, and he was carried into the convention sessions in a sedan chair. Despite his health problems, he remained an influential voice in the debates and urged the delegates to support the completed document.

The youngest signer was Jonathan Dayton, who was 26, creating a 55-year age gap between the two. Franklin died in 1790, making him the first Constitution signer to die; James Madison was the last, dying in 1836. Franklin's role as the oldest signer is distinct from George Washington's role as convention president and first signer.