History of Benton, New York, USA

1854 - Benton
Benton, a post-township of Yates county, New York, on the west shore of Seneca lake, about 180 miles W. from Albany. It is intersected by the Canandaigua and Elmira railroad. Population, 3456.

Benton, a small post-village in the above township, 7 miles N. by E. from Pen Yan.
A New and Complete Gazetteer of the United States: Giving a Full and Comprehensive Review of the Present Condition, Industry, and Resources of the American Confederacy ... Thomas Baldwin (of Philadelphia.) Joseph Thomas January 1, 1854 Philadelphia : Lippincott, Grambo & Company 1854.

1859
BENTON, a township in Yates co., in the state of New York, 184 m. W of ALbany. Pop. 3,911.
A Gazetteer of the World: Or, Dictionary of Geographical Knowledge, Publisher A. Fullarton, 1859

1892 - Benton
It requires no stretch of conscience, no exaggeration of fact, to say concerning the town of Benton, that among the towns of Yates County, or even among the towns of Western New York, it ranks with the foremost in point of thrift, wealth, enterprise, productiveness, and generous hospitality on the part of the present generation of inhabitants therein. And what is true regarding them is also said to have been characteristic of their ancestors, The early history of settlement, development, and improvement in this town was not dissimilar to that of other towns in the same region, the localities bordering on Seneca Lake. The lands here were a part of the Phelps and Gorham purchase, and being surveyed, the greater portion of the town, as at present constituted, comprised township No. 8, of the first range. This implies that its eastern boundary abutted the old pre-emption line, which was the fact; but in making disposition of the lands east of the line and west of the lake, the district of ... Read MORE...

1895 - Benton
Benton, a township of Yates co., N.Y., is on the west shore of Seneca Lake, and is intersected by the Northern Central Railroad. Benton Station is 44 miles N. of Penn Yan. The township contains part of Penn Yan, and the villages of Bellona and Benton Centre. Pop. 2410.
Lippincott's Gazetteer of the World: A Complete Pronouncing Gazetteer Or Geographical Dictionary of the World Containing Notices of Over One Hundred and Twenty-five Thousand Places ... Joseph Thomas January 1, 1895 J.B. Lippincott

1916
Benton, a township (town) of Yates co., N.Y., is on the W. shore of Seneca Lake and is intersected by the Northern Central R. Benton station is 4} miles N. of Penn Yan. The town contains part of Penn Yan village. Pop. of the town in 1900, 2179.
Lippincotts New Gazetteer: A Complete Pronouncing Gazetteer Or Geographical Dictionary of the World, Containing the Most Recent and Authentic Information Respecting the Countries, Cities, Towns, Resorts, Islands, Rivers, Mountains, Seas, Lakes, Etc., in Every Portion of the Globe, Part 1 Angelo Heilprin Louis Heilprin - January 1, 1916 J.B. Lippincott - Publisher

Here's a list of places to go and things to do in and around Benton:
Keuka Lake State Park: If you're into outdoor activities, this is the spot. Hike, fish, or just enjoy the scenic beauty of Keuka Lake. It's a perfect place for a picnic or a leisurely stroll.

Keuka Lake Vineyards: The Finger Lakes region is known for its wineries, and Keuka Lake Vineyards is a gem. Take a wine tour, learn about the winemaking process, and of course, sample some of their finest wines.

Windmill Farm & Craft Market: Open on Saturdays, this is a fantastic place to explore local crafts, fresh produce, and unique finds. It's a great spot to support local businesses and pick up some one-of-a-kind items.

Hammondsport: A quaint village near Benton, Hammondsport sits at the southern tip of Keuka Lake. It's known for its historic architecture, charming shops, and great places to grab a bite to eat.

Finger Lakes Boating Museum: Explore the rich maritime history of the Finger Lakes region. The museum showcases antique boats, engines, and other nautical artifacts. It's... Read MORE...