Benton, Indiana facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Benton, Indiana
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historic Benton Methodist Church
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 Benton, Indiana
Location in Indiana
Benton, Indiana
Location in the United States
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| Country | United States |
| State | Indiana |
| County | Elkhart |
| Township | Benton |
| Elevation | 833 ft (254 m) |
| ZIP code |
46526 & 46528
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| FIPS code | 18-04780 |
| GNIS feature ID | 2830367 |
Benton is a small, quiet community located in Elkhart County, Indiana. It is known as an unincorporated community, which means it's a place where people live but it doesn't have its own local government like a city or town. Instead, it's part of a larger area called Benton Township.
History
Benton has a long history, dating back to the early 1800s. The community was officially planned and mapped out, a process called "platting," in the year 1832. This means someone drew up the first maps for streets and lots.
The community was given its name to honor a famous person from that time. It was named after Thomas Hart Benton, who was an important politician. A politician is someone who works in government, making decisions for the public.
Later, in 1892, a railroad was built right through Benton. Railroads were a very important way to travel and move goods back then. Benton also had its own post office. It opened in 1835, helping people send and receive mail. The post office served the community for many years until it closed in 1963.
