Benson, Iowa: A History of a Cedar Falls Township Village
Nestled within Cedar Falls Township, the small community of Benson serves as a poignant example of the rise and fall of railroad-dependent settlements in the American Midwest. Founded along the Illinois Central Railroad, Benson emerged as a modest hub of commerce and education for the surrounding rural landscape at the turn of the 20th century.
During its early years, Benson was characterized as a "very small village" in the historical records of Black Hawk County, Iowa. Despite its size, it provided essential services to the local population, fostering a tight-knit community centered around the rail line.
Community Infrastructure and Economy
In the early 1900s, Benson supported a variety of small businesses that catered to the needs of farmers and residents. The village economy was diversified, featuring a blacksmith shop, a general store, and a dairy. Additionally, the community benefited from the presence of a lumber yard and a coal dealer, making it a practical stop for essential materials.
Education was also a priority for the township. The Benson school, designated as school #2 in the township, was staffed by two teachers, ensuring that local children had access to primary education within their own community.
The Impact of the Illinois Central Railroad
The lifeline of Benson was the Illinois Central Railroad. However, the village's reliance on the rail line became a vulnerability in 1906 when the railroad company decided to abandon the line at Benson in favor of an alternative route. This decision led to the immediate closure of the local depot.
The closure sparked a legal battle. Three local enterprises—the Citizens Lumber Company, the S.C. Canfield Coal company, and Lee Canfield general merchandise—filed a lawsuit for $15,000. Despite this legal challenge, representatives from the Illinois Central Railroad maintained that the volume of business was simply insufficient to justify keeping the depot operational.
Population Trends
The demographic shifts in Benson reflect the volatility of small railroad towns. At the start of the century, the population was 25 residents. By 1920, the village saw a slight increase to 35 people, before dipping back down to 25 by 1940.
| Year | Population | Key Event |
|---|---|---|
| 1900 | 25 | Established as a small village |
| 1906 | N/A | Rail line abandoned; depot closed |
| 1920 | 35 | Peak recorded population |
| 1940 | 25 | Population decline |
Key Facts
- Location: Cedar Falls Township, Black Hawk County, Iowa.
- Foundation: Established on the Illinois Central Railroad.
- Key Businesses: Included a dairy, blacksmith shop, general store, lumber yard, and coal dealer.
- Education: Home to school #2, which employed two teachers.
- Railroad Conflict: A $15,000 lawsuit was filed by three businesses after the depot closed in 1906.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where was Benson located?
Benson was located in Cedar Falls Township within Black Hawk County, Iowa.
What businesses operated in Benson during its peak?
The village hosted a general store, a blacksmith shop, a dairy, a lumber yard, and a coal dealer.
Why did the railroad depot in Benson close?
The Illinois Central Railroad abandoned the line in 1906 in favor of another route, claiming that business levels were not sufficient to maintain the depot.
Did the community fight the closure of the depot?
Yes, three local businesses—the Citizens Lumber Company, S.C. Canfield Coal company, and Lee Canfield general merchandise—filed a lawsuit for $15,000 against the railroad.
How many teachers worked at the Benson school?
The Benson school (#2 in the township) had two teachers.