Daniel Benton Homestead

Daniel Benton Homestead is an intriguing place to visit in Tolland, Connecticut. Originally built in 1720 in a New England styled structure, it is the oldest remaining house in Tolland County. It was occupied by the Benton family for six generations, spanning 212 years (from 1720 to 1932). Later, different owners claimed the custody of the house, when it finally came in the possession of the Tolland Historical Society, and since then has been a famous museum in Tolland.

Apart from its unique characteristics, the Daniel Benton Homestead holds a rich history and tells an interesting story.  Daniel Benton, who originally built the house, had his sons take part in the French and Indian wars. Three of Benton's grandsons also fought in the Revolutionary War, out of which only one, Elisha, survived and was captured by the British on a prison ship, where he contracted smallpox. Later, he was traded for a British prisoner and sent home. It is said that before going to War, Elisha fell in love with a local girl named Jemima Barrows, who happened to be 12 years younger than him. This could possibly be the reason why his family disapproved of their relationship. After returning home from British custody, Elisha fell sick and Jemima, despite family objections, lived with him to look after his health. Sadly, in January 1777, Elisha died of smallpox, so did Jemima five weeks later. To this day, their graves are situated at the Daniel Benton Homestead. 

In 1777, the Daniel Benton Homestead was used as a temporary prison for 24 captured Hessian officers. It was used as a layover place for those soldiers, who were to be transported to Boston for shipment back to Germany. Some of the graffiti made by them can still be seen today in the basement of the house.

Over the years, several minor changes were made to the Daniel Benton Homestead, though much remained the same as was in the times of Daniel Benton. A beautifully paneled fireplace wall has been retained in the hall, whereas, paneling in the parlor has been repainted into its original light Prussian blue color. Chimneys were repaired to make the five fireplaces in workable condition again.

In 1932, the Daniel Benton Homestead was purchased by Florrie Bishop Bowering, a radio host and dietician at the University of Connecticut, who owned the place till her death in 1968. Afterwards, it was bought by Charles B. Goodstein and William A. Shocket in 1969, who donated it to the Tolland Historical Society for making it into a museum.

Till today, the Daniel Benton Homestead attracts a number of visitors, who come to see the place for its historical relevance, romantic love story and haunted speculations. Indeed, it is one of the most famous places to see in Tolland, Connecticut.