Benjamin Wood Richards (November 12, 1797 – July 12, 1851) was an American politician who served as the 59th mayor of Philadelphia in 1829 and a second time from 1830 to 1832.

[3] He served as an original member of the City Board of Controllers and in 1829, was elected as a Canal Commissioner.

After leaving office, Richards served as trustee of Girard College and the University of Pennsylvania.

He founded the Girard Life Insurance, Annuity and Trust Company in 1836 and served as president.

[3] His older half brother, Samuel Richards, was a prominent iron manufacturer in New Jersey during the early-mid 19th century.