Benton Charter Township, Michigan facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Benton Charter Township, Michigan
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Charter township
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Location within Berrien County (red) and the administered communities of Benton Heights and Fair Plain (pink)
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 Benton Charter Township, Michigan
Location in Michigan
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| Country | United States | |
| State | Michigan | |
| County | Berrien | |
| Area | ||
| • Total | 32.8 sq mi (85.0 km2) | |
| • Land | 32.4 sq mi (83.8 km2) | |
| • Water | 0.5 sq mi (1.2 km2) | |
| Elevation | 633 ft (193 m) | |
| Population
(2020)
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| • Total | 14,374 | |
| • Density | 437.98/sq mi (169.11/km2) | |
| Time zone | UTC-5 (Eastern (EST)) | |
| • Summer (DST) | UTC-4 (EDT) | |
| ZIP code(s) |
49022, 49126
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| Area code(s) | 269 | |
| FIPS code | 26-07400 | |
| GNIS feature ID | 1625918 | |
Benton Charter Township is a special kind of town called a charter township. It is located in Berrien County in the U.S. state of Michigan. In 2020, about 14,374 people lived here. It's a place with a mix of history, nature, and important businesses.
Contents
Communities in Benton Township
Benton Charter Township includes several smaller communities. These places are part of the township but have their own unique feel.
- Benton Heights is a community found in the west-central part of the township. It is right next to the city of Benton Harbor.
- Fair Plain is another community located in the southwest of the township. It even stretches a bit into nearby St. Joseph Charter Township.
- Millburg is a community in the eastern part of the township. It is close to the border with Bainbridge Township.
History of Benton Charter Township
Benton Charter Township has a long and interesting past. It was officially created on March 11, 1837.
How Benton Township Got Its Name
The township was named after Thomas Hart Benton. He was a very important U.S. senator from the state of Missouri. For a few years, until 1841, it was managed together with St. Joseph Township.
The House of David Community
A unique group called the House of David used to live in the township. They were a religious community that formed a commune.
The Benton Harbor Fruit Market
In 1967, the famous Benton Harbor Fruit Market moved to the township. This market had been around since 1860. Later, the city of Benton Harbor grew and included the market within its own boundaries.
Geography of Benton Charter Township
Benton Charter Township is located in the northwest part of Berrien County. It covers a total area of about 85 square kilometers (32.8 square miles). Most of this area, about 83.8 square kilometers (32.4 square miles), is land. The rest, about 1.2 square kilometers (0.5 square miles), is water.
Neighboring Areas
To the west, the township touches Lake Michigan in the north and the city of Benton Harbor in the south. To the southwest, you'll find St. Joseph and St. Joseph Charter Township. Other nearby townships include Hagar Township to the north, Coloma Charter Township to the northeast, and Bainbridge Township to the east. To the southeast is Pipestone Township, and to the south are Sodus Township and Royalton Township.
Major Roads and Highways
Several important roads run through Benton Charter Township.
- I-94 is a major interstate highway that crosses the township diagonally.
- I-196 is another interstate highway that starts where it meets I-94.
- US 31 follows parts of I-196 and I-94. It also uses Napier Avenue and a completed section of the St. Joseph Valley Parkway.
- M-139 is a state highway in the southwest part of the township. It connects I-94 to Business Loop I-94.
People of Benton Charter Township
In 2020, the population of Benton Charter Township was 14,374 people. The community is made up of people from many different backgrounds. The largest groups are White (38.19%) and Black or African American (47.23%). There are also people who identify as Native American, Asian, Pacific Islander, or of mixed races. About 8.58% of the population identifies as Hispanic or Latino.
Economy in Benton Charter Township
Benton Charter Township is home to some big businesses.
Whirlpool Corporation Headquarters
The main office for Whirlpool Corporation is located in the township. Whirlpool is a very well-known company that makes home appliances. They employ many people in the area, helping the local economy.
Education and Learning
The township is served by the Benton Harbor Public Library. This library is a great resource for books, learning, and community programs. It is located within the nearby city of Benton Harbor.
Sports and Recreation
Benton Charter Township offers fun places for sports and enjoying nature.
Point O'Woods Golf & Country Club
If you like golf, the Point O'Woods Golf & Country Club is located in the township. It's just northwest of the Millburg community.
Sarett Nature Center
For nature lovers, the Sarett Nature Center is a fantastic place. It's a large wildlife sanctuary covering about 300 acres (1.2 square kilometers). It has trails for walking, a building with exhibits, and offers classes to learn about nature. It was named after Lew R. Sarett.
