Biographical Sketch of

Benoni Bentley

Transcribed by Sandra Boudrou for the Marquette Co WI Pages


Source: Portrait and Biographical Album of Green Lake, Marquette and Waushara Counties, Wisconsin, 
published 1890 by Acme Publishing Co., Chicago, Pages 753 - 754 


Benoni Bentley, deceased, one of the early settlers of Waushara County, was born in Pennsylvania, and prior to his 
emigration to the West was united in marriage with Miss Fannie Coleman, a native of New York.  By their union were 
born the following children:  Melinda, who is now deceased; Marion W., wife of Benjamin Elliott, a prominent farmer 
of the town of Plainfield; Seneca K., who is also engaged in farming in that town; Elmira F., who is deceased; and 
Elisha T., a resident of Plainfield.
 
Hearing of the opportunities and advantages afforded in the West, and believing that he might better his financial 
condition by removal thereto, Mr. Bentley, accompanied by his family, started in 1850 for Wisconsin.  He first settled 
in Green Lake County, but in 1852 removed to Waushara County, making that place the scene of his future labors and was 
one of the earliest settlers in this section.  He erected the second house in the town of Plainfield, hauling the lumber 
from Berlin with ox-teams.  He was only permitted to enjoy his new home a short time, for on the 1st of August 1853, he 
departed this life.  He was quiet in manner, yet firm in support of the right, and won the high esteem of those with whom 
he came in contact.  His early life had been spent as a carpenter, but on coming to Waushara County he embarked in farming, 
thinking that he might thereby procure good homes for his children.
 
In 1856 Mrs. Bentley was again married, becoming the wife of John B. Youngman, and unto them were born four children--
Charles, Estella, Florence A. and William.  The father of that family died Nov. 29, 1873, but Mrs. Youngman survived until 
1887, when on the 5th of May she too passed away.  she was a useful and consistent member of the Baptist Church, and was 
beloved by all for her many excellences of character.
 
 




Back to the Marquette Pages Menu