Originally published by Goodspeed Publishing in the 1880s, this reprint contains memoirs and biographies of Benton County pioneers. It contains a brief history of the county from the beginning up to the time it was written, which includes Location and Boundary; Topography and Natural History; Settlement; Indians; County Organization; Public Buildings; Municipal Townships; Public Highways; Railroads; Public Lands and Their Surveys; Agriculture and Horticulture; Benton County Finances; Societies; Elections; County and District Officers; The Courts; Towns and Villages; Education and Literature; and Christianity.The biographical portion of this work was written from material submitted by the families themselves, therefore, it should be very accurate and detailed. The biographical sketches provide insights into the lives of the people who lived in the county and give a unique perspective on its history. A full-name and place index adds to the value of this work.