Benton County, Tennessee

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Benton County, Tennessee is a county located in the western part of the U.S. state of Tennessee. As of the 2020 census, the population was 16,160. Its county seat is Camden. The county was created in 1835 and named after David Benton, a prominent early settler.

History

Benton County was established in 1835 from parts of Humphreys County. The county was named in honor of David Benton, who was an early settler and a member of the Tennessee General Assembly. The county has a rich history, including its role in the American Civil War, where it was a site of several skirmishes.

Geography

According to the United States Census Bureau, the county has a total area of 436 square miles (1,130 km²), of which 394 square miles (1,020 km²) is land and 42 square miles (110 km²) (9.6%) is water. The county is located in the western part of the state and is bordered by the Tennessee River to the east.

Adjacent counties

• Henry County (north)
• Carroll County (east)
• Decatur County (south)
• Perry County (southwest)
• Humphreys County (west)

Major highways

• Interstate 40
• U.S. Route 70
• State Route 69

Demographics

As of the 2020 census, there were 16,160 people, 6,500 households, and 4,500 families residing in the county. The population density was 41 people per square mile (16/km²). The racial makeup of the county was predominantly White, with small percentages of African American, Native American, and other races.

Economy

The economy of Benton County is diverse, with significant contributions from agriculture, manufacturing, and tourism. The county is known for its agricultural products, including soybeans, corn, and livestock. Manufacturing also plays a vital role, with several factories and plants located in the area.

Education

Benton County is served by the Benton County School District, which includes several elementary schools, a middle school, and a high school. The county also has access to higher education institutions in nearby counties.

Communities

Cities

• Camden (county seat)

Towns

• Big Sandy

Unincorporated communities

• Eva
• Holladay

Notable people

• Bobby Whitlock, musician and songwriter, known for his work with Derek and the Dominos
• Sonny Melton, a nurse who was killed in the 2017 Las Vegas shooting

See also

• National Register of Historic Places listings in Benton County, Tennessee
• List of counties in Tennessee

External links

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