Benton, Illinois 2025

Benton is a city in Franklin County, Illinois. The population was 7,081 at the 2010 census. The city was founded in 1841 and named after politician Thomas Hart Benton.

It has several attractions, including the Benton Public Library, which offers books, movies, and events for all ages; the Franklin County Historical Society Museum, which preserves and shares the history of Franklin County through exhibits and programs; and the Rend Lake, which offers fishing, boating, and other outdoor activities. The city also has a variety of restaurants and shops.

Benton is also home to several events, including the Benton Farmer'in honor of Agriculture Celebration in September and the Lighted Christmas Parade in December. The city is surrounded by rolling hills and rich farmland, and it has a humid continental climate with hot summers and cold winters.

According to the 2010 census, the racial makeup of the city is 98.51% White, 0.42% African American, 0.27% Native American, and 0.54% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 0.54% of the population. The median age in the city was 39.2 years. There were 96.2 males for every 100 females over the age of 18.

Benton has a long history dating back to 1841, when it was founded by Jesse B. Norton. In 1853, the first train came to the area, and the town's first grain elevator was built in 1870. The city has a strong agricultural tradition and has been home to several notable people, including baseball player Charles "Swish" Nicholson, who played for the Chicago Cubs and Philadelphia Athletics in the 1930s and 1940s.

In summary, Benton is a small city in southern Illinois with a rich history, several attractions, and a strong agricultural heritage. It has a humid continental climate and a population of approximately 7,000 people. The city hosts several events throughout the year and offers various dining and shopping options.

Overall, Benton is a charming and welcoming community with a lot to offer visitors and residents alike.