The Way to Wealth
By Benjamin Franklin
First published in 1758, The Way to Wealth is one of Benjamin Franklin’s most enduring works. Presented through the sayings of “Poor Richard,” Franklin gathers practical wisdom on work, thrift, industry, time, debt, and the proper use of money.
Though written more than two centuries ago, its central lessons remain remarkably relevant. Franklin understood that prosperity was not simply a matter of earning more—it was a matter of developing the habits and character necessary to use what we have wisely.
His advice is direct: time is valuable, debt can become a master, idleness carries a cost, and steady industry produces results.
For readers interested in the foundations of American character evoking the perspective of Biblical stewardship, The Way to Wealth is especially valuable because it reveals something about the virtues that early Americans believed were necessary for a free and prosperous society.
Why read it?
Because wealth is not merely about what we possess. It is also about the habits, discipline, prudence, and character that allow us to steward what we possess well.
“While laziness travels so slow, that poverty soon overtakes him, as we read in Poor Richard, who adds, drive thy business, let not that drive thee; and early to bed, and early to rise, makes a man healthy, wealthy and wise….beware of little expenses,; a small leak will sink a great ship…”
- Benjamin Franklin, The Way to Wealth
Recommended Reading: The Way to Wealth by Benjamin Franklin
Best place to begin: Read the entire essay in one sitting, then return to Franklin’s individual maxims and consider how they apply to your own use of time, money, work, and opportunity.
A thought worth carrying with you:
The wisdom of a prosperous society begins with the character of its people. What character are you exhibiting to produce a better and prosperous society?
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The Weekly Landing is the flagship publication of History Landing 1620, exploring Scripture, history, philosophy, and the ideas that have shaped Christian civilization and the American Story.
While The Weekly Landing’s regular Wednesday newsletter will always remain free, this publication may also include additional essays, book recommendations, historical resources, and other special features published throughout the year. These pieces are part of the broader work of History Landing 1620 and its mission to encourage thoughtful reading, historical understanding, faithful living, and lifelong learning.
Through The Weekly Landing, History Landing 1620 seeks to recover the wisdom of the past and apply it faithfully to the present—preserving the lessons, ideas, books, and principles worth passing on to the next generation.
Timeless Wisdom. Faithful Living. A Legacy Worth Leaving.
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Sources
1. Image
David Martin, Benjamin Franklin, 1767, oil on canvas mounted on panel, White House Collection. Public-domain image via Wikimedia Commons. Historical and collection information: White House Historical Association. Image: Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons. Painting information: White House Historical Association.
© 2026 Tyler Anthony Loiselle. Published by History Landing 1620. All Rights Reserved.