The Franklin County Courthouse is located in Benton, Illinois. Benton boasts close proximity to Rend Lake, a 19,000-acre reservoir featuring excellent camping, swimming, boating, and fishing. Famous Benton natives include NBA player/coach Doug Collins and actor John Malkovich. Benton is also home to some of the best antique stores in the area (located in the town square). If you are in town and looking for a place to eat, try Seasoning Bistro or SI Pho.
The Jefferson County Courthouse is located in Mt. Vernon, Illinois. Mt. Vernon is home to Cedarhurst Center for the Arts, a 90-acre visual and performing arts venue that hosts various events for the public throughout the year. Notable Mt. Vernon natives include television personality Randy Fenoli, actress Crista Flanagan, diplomat Jeane Kirkpatrick, and filmmaker Ben Moses. Mt. Vernon has many great dining options; a few of our favorites include Fujiyama, Rare Chop House, and the Frosty Mug.
