Benton is the Franklin County seat whose Courthouse, built in 1875, sits in the center of one of the few remaining squares in Illinois. The Benton Square has an old-fashioned feel and quaint uniqueness, surrounded by antique stores, specialty stores and popular eateries. Family-oriented events are held around the Square every year to promote tradition, community involvement, and the Rockwellian sentiment and atmosphere embraced in the downtown area.