Benton, IL

Benton, IL is a small city located in Franklin County, Illinois. The area was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, primarily the Shawnee and the Illiniwek tribes. European settlers began to arrive in the early 1800s, with the establishment of a trading post near present-day Benton.

The town was officially founded in 1841 when the Illinois Central Railroad came through the area. It was named after Thomas Hart Benton, a prominent senator from Missouri. The railroad played a crucial role in the growth of the town, which soon became a hub for agriculture, coal mining, and manufacturing.

During the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Benton experienced prosperity due to the abundance of coal in the region. The coal industry attracted immigrants from various European countries, including Italy and Poland, who came to work in the mines. The population of Benton grew steadily, and the city became an important center of coal production.

In 1922, Benton gained national attention when a major labor dispute broke out between the United Mine Workers of America (UMWA) and the mine operators. The conflict, known as the Herrin Massacre, resulted in the deaths of at least 19 people and further shaped the history of Benton as a labor stronghold.

In the latter half of the 20th century, Benton faced the challenges of economic decline and population loss, as the coal industry declined. However, the city has sought to diversify its economy by attracting new businesses and industries. Today, Benton remains a small, close-knit community with a population of around 7,000 people.

Benton has preserved much of its historical character, with several buildings and landmarks reflecting its coal mining past, including the Coal Miner's Memorial Park, which features a statue honoring the region's miners. The Rend Lake Recreation Area, located nearby, provides opportunities for outdoor activities and tourism.

Overall, the history of Benton, IL is closely intertwined with the story of coal mining in southern Illinois and the impact it had on the development and growth of the community.

Franklin County Garage Antique Mall

A large antique mall offering a variety of antiques, collectibles, and vintage items.

Rend Lake

A popular destination for boating, fishing, swimming, hiking, and camping.

Benton City Park

A beautiful park with walking paths, picnic areas, playgrounds, and a swimming pool.

Rend Lake Golf Course

A scenic golf course nestled along the shores of Rend Lake, offering a challenging yet enjoyable golfing experience.

Williamson County Tourism Bureau

A visitor center that provides information about the various attractions, events, and activities in and around Benton.

Franklin County Fairgrounds

Hosts the annual Franklin County Fair, featuring livestock shows, rodeos, live entertainment, carnival rides, and food vendors.

Benton Civic Center

A multi-purpose venue that hosts various community events, concerts, trade shows, and conventions.

Benton Square

The downtown area of Benton, offering a variety of small shops, boutiques, restaurants, and historic buildings.

Benton Drive-In

A classic drive-in movie theater, allowing visitors to enjoy films from the comfort of their own vehicles.

Veterans Memorial

A tribute to the local veterans of Benton and Franklin County, honoring their service and sacrifices.

Benton, Illinois has a humid climate characterized by hot and humid summers and cold winters. The town experiences all four seasons throughout the year.

Summers in Benton are typically hot and humid with average high temperatures ranging from the upper 80s to the low 90s Fahrenheit (around 30-33 degrees Celsius). The humidity levels can be quite high, often resulting in uncomfortable heat indices. Thunderstorms occur frequently during the summer months, bringing heavy rainfall.

Autumns in Benton are generally mild and pleasant, with temperatures gradually decreasing from September to November. Average highs range from the 60s to the 70s Fahrenheit (around 15-25 degrees Celsius). Fall foliage is often beautiful in the surrounding nature areas.

Winters in Benton are cold, with average temperatures ranging from the 20s to the 40s Fahrenheit (-6 to 4 degrees Celsius). Snowfall is common during the winter months, usually beginning in December and extending into February. Temperatures can occasionally drop below freezing, and frigid Arctic air masses can bring bitterly cold conditions from time to time.

Spring in Benton is usually mild, with temperatures gradually warming up. Average high temperatures range from the upper 50s to the 70s Fahrenheit (around 15-25 degrees Celsius). Spring is often the wettest season, with an increase in rainfall and the possibility of severe thunderstorms.

Overall, Benton, IL experiences a typical continental climate with distinct seasons and a mix of weather patterns throughout the year.

Benton, Illinois is a small city located in Franklin County. While it may not have distinct neighborhoods like larger cities, there are a few notable areas within Benton that provide different living experiences. Here are some of them:

Downtown Benton

Located in the heart of the city, the downtown area features a charming and historic atmosphere. It is known for its quaint shops, restaurants, and local businesses. Downtown Benton also hosts community events, including festivals and parades, making it a lively and social part of town.

North Benton

The northern part of the city is mainly residential and consists of a mix of single-family homes and apartments. This area offers a quiet and family-friendly atmosphere, with easy access to schools and community parks. North Benton provides a suburban living experience with a close-knit community.

South Benton

South Benton is home to various housing options, including both newer developments and older homes. This area features a more relaxed suburban vibe with larger lots and more spacious properties. South Benton offers a quieter setting that is still within reach of the city's amenities.

Lake Benton

Located south of Benton, Lake Benton is a neighborhood near Rend Lake. Here, residents have access to outdoor recreational activities such as fishing, boating, and hiking. Living in this area offers a scenic and nature-filled experience, making it popular among outdoor enthusiasts.

West Benton

West Benton is a mix of residential areas and commercial zones. This section of the city is known for its convenience, as it offers easy access to major roadways and shopping centers. West Benton provides a practical living experience with a range of amenities nearby.

While Benton may not have official neighborhood designations, these areas within the city provide different living environments to suit various preferences.